“Although the UK electricity and gas supply market continues to be dominated by the ‘big six’ energy firms, smaller suppliers have gained market share - reaching an estimated 8% in mid-2014. Smaller competitors have been successful in attracting customers from the larger players by offering better value prices tariffs or by stressing their green credentials or community involvement. They have also been able to take advantage of consumers’ continued mistrust of the ‘big six’.

With recently introduced changes by Ofgem, which aim to reduce barriers to effective competition and make it simpler for consumers to switch supplier, competition in the energy supply sector is set to further intensify. Poor customer service remains an issue across the industry and this needs to be a key focus of improvement for all suppliers to give them a competitive edge. However, with household budgets remaining squeezed, competition is expected to remain largely price based for the foreseeable future.”

– Claudia Preedy - Industrial Analyst

This report addresses the following key questions concerning the UK energy market:

• How do UK and EU policies affect the development of the energy sector?

• What are the key market issues facing gas and electricity suppliers?

• What are the key reasons for consumers switching energy supplier?

• How have major energy suppliers performed over the last five years?

• What is the potential future energy mix?