The government announced it will simplify the tariffs energy companies are able to offer consumers. Energy Secretary Ed Davey this week revealed the 'four core tariff' plan for gas and electricity deals. The government wants customers placed on the cheapest available price at the latest by summer 2014. Customers on out-of-date tariffs providing poor value, who are paying a higher rate than their supplier's cheapest standard tariff, will be switched to the cheaper rate under the new plans.