Tuesday 18 October 2011

EDF boss calls for industry revamp

The boss of EDF Energy has said that the sector must go further in rebuilding trust with the public by claiming that a competition commission might be the only way to nurse the woes of the UK public.

Vincent de Rivaz, EDF Energy Chief Executive said: "We need to change the dynamic. We cannot keep doing the same thing and expecting a different outcome. That is why I was also the first to say a Competition Commission enquiry may be needed. It is a myth that this would take 5 years. It could be completed in 12 to18 months. It is a myth that it would delay investment or delay action for customers in the meantime."

Mr de Rivaz said energy firms had to prioritise a shared agenda above individual agendas to increase trust: "I propose we establish an open, transparent forum of Ministers, the regulator, industry, copnsumer groups, NGOs, charities, the media and academics. And we need to find ways through digital and social media to demonstrate that we are transparent."

The comments came after the UK Government proposed the 'Check, Switch & Insulate to Save' measure, an agreement between the Big Six on clearer communications to make sure consumers know about the potential savings from checking on their energy deal, switching tariff and/or supplier, and insulating to save money this winter.