The UK is enjoying a period of mature deregulation and healthy competition in the gas and electricity supply industry. Many new names have joined the traditional brand names like British Gas as a result of deregulation of the market. Deregulation has however posed a new problem for gas and electricity consumers. As they are now presented with numerous choices, the services offered by the old and new energy suppliers various widely, from very poor to commendable service. This is where Ofgem (Office of Gas and Electricity Markets) comes in. Ofgem is the regulator of gas and electricity market in the UK. Ofgem's primary objective is to protect consumers and it achieves this by:

- promoting competition in th Gas and Electricity Industry where it finds it appropriate.

-Regulating monopoly in the Gas and Electricity companies that run the UK energy networks.

Ofgem other duties and influences as stated by them also include:

• helping to secure Britain’s energy supplies by promoting competitive gas and electricity markets - and regulating them so that there is adequate investment in the networks, and

• contributing to the drive to curb climate change and other work aimed at sustainable development by, for example:

• helping gas and electricity industries to achieve environmental improvements as efficiently as possible; and

• taking account of the needs of vulnerable customers, particularly older people, those with disabilities and those on low incomes.

With the rising cost of Gas and Electricity in th UK, the consumers are beginning to benefit immensely from the deregulated energy market. The way gas and electricity supply has been structured in the UK now means switching suppliers does not require any altering or disruption to the gas and electricity supply into your property.

Customers are advised to shop around for the cheapest Gas and Electricity supplier in their local area. Customers who switch both their gas and electricity supply to a new provider can save over £200 per year. Consumers can save even more if they sign for a dual fuel deal, which is where a single energy company supplies you with both gas and electricity.

The greatest savings is however made if you sign up with a Gas and Electricity supplier for an online dual fuel deal and make your payments by direct debit. All the discounts available from a supplier and combined in this online deals to give you maximum savings in your Gas and Electricity bill. Why not start here today to see how much you can save.