NOTTS households are being urged to get plugged into average savings of up to £200 off their annual gas and electric bills – by joining a new collective energy switching scheme launched yesterday.
The Nottinghamshire Switch'n'Save offer has been set up by Notts County Council and consumer organisation Which? to try and offer residents value for money on gas and electricity prices.
The scheme – similar to one run by the city council – works by collectively negotiating the best possible price for its members, with energy companies competing for their custom.
Figures show that the average bill has risen to £1,264 following price rises of 20 per cent in 2011 and a further 11 per cent late last year.
Reg Adair, chairman of the council's finance and property committee says: "This is a great value-for-money offer.
"We want as many people as possible to join, as we'll be able to use our collective buying power muscle to negotiate a really good deal from the energy companies.
"We know many older people have been put off switching energy supplier and are missing out on big savings."
Which? executive director, Richard Lloyd, said: "Which? is proud to be teaming up with Notts County Council to help people 'Switch'n'Save' on their energy bills.
"Rising energy prices are one of consumers' top financial worries but by taking part in 'Switch'n'Save', people in Nottinghamshire could help their household budgets.
"When Which? ran our national collective switch last year, The Big Switch, we saved those who took part an average of £223."
For more information on the scheme, which will run until March 20, visit www.nottinghamshiregov.uk/switchnsave.