Citizens Advice response to Ofgem consultation on the future of the Ban on Acquisition-only Tariffs beyond March 2025
The ban on acquisition tariffs (BAT) is important in improving fairness for energy consumers by ensuring that all customers are able to access the most competitively priced energy tariffs, ensuring that a supplier’s best rates are available to both new and existing customers. The broader principle that consumers should not suffer a Loyalty Penalty for staying with their current provider is a crucial one. The BAT continues to:
● help ensure fair pricing for all customers
● prevent harm to indebted and/or vulnerable customers
● help rebuild consumer trust in energy suppliers
We support a permanent retention of the BAT, particularly in light of the need for price protection and regulatory consistency in a market transitioning to net zero.