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Energy watchdog Ofgem is looking into recent gas and electricity price rises, to see if more action is needed to protect consumers. It said that the net profit margin of £65 per typical customer in September was now £90, a 38% increase.

Energy regulator Ofgem has proposed to sweep away “complex and unfair pricing practices” by the main gas and electricity suppliers after examining the market. Ofgem added that, for the first time, it had uncovered evidence that suppliers had pushed up prices in response to rising costs more swiftly than they reduced them when costs fell.

The government has begun a host of consultations concerning its plan for smart meters in every home.

The news of a suspected government U-turn on an energy efficiency scheme for homes has resulted in Channel 4’s Grand

Protesters entered the headquarters of British Gas to demonstrate over fuel prices.

The UK Treasury could fight EU calls to end tax breaks for energy-saving goods.

A report says firms can use a ‘light bulb moment’ of inspiration to save on their energy spend. The report, entitled The Light Bulb Moment, explains that manufacturing firms across the UK could save £1.4 billion a year simply by installing more efficient lighting systems.

Fears have been raised about fuel shortages in one English region.

‘Big Six’ energy supplier SSE has been fined £1.25 million for misleading customers into thinking they would get a better energy deal.

Wholesale gas prices will be higher later in 2012, warned British Gas. The well-known energy supplier’s owners said gas costs would be 15% more expensive next winter, adding: “The trend for retail energy costs therefore remains upwards.” British Gas customers last August saw a 16 per cent rise in electricity prices and an 18% rise in gas prices.

Energy customers will be automatically offered cheaper deals by the suppliers, Nick Clegg will announce today (Wednesday, April 11, 2012). Under the scheme, every household will be notified at least once a year if they should switch tariffs.

A survey by a price comparison website has found that one in five households believed their finances were at a ‘tipping point’ and rising fuel bills were the most important factor in squeezing their wallets. Moneysupermarket.com says that weekly outgoings for the average British adult have gone up by £54 over the past six months.