Question to the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, what steps the Government is taking to encourage energy companies to improve the accessibility and clarity of energy bills and statements to help customers better understand their charges.

Ofgem, as the energy regulator, are responsible for deciding what information suppliers have to provide on energy bills. Too much detailed information on energy bills is not always an effective way to engage with consumers who can find this too complex or confusing. Ofgem are therefore introducing a principles based approach which allows bills to be simplified, with information made available elsewhere in a way which works for consumers. This approach recognises the different preferences consumers have for how they receive information, and balances protection for consumers with greater room for flexibility and innovation in the future. Ofgem are also conducting trials, the first of which concluded in autumn last year, to uncover what works in engaging consumers, without irritating them. These trails will be scaled up and rolled out nationally if successful.