The recent announcement that Tomato Energy is ceasing to trade has left many customers feeling uncertain about their energy supply and bills. If you are one of them, it’s important to know that your energy supply is secure and that you have rights and options.
This article will guide you through what the Tomato Energy collapse means for you, the process Ofgem follows, and why seeking expert advice from Adams Consultancy can ensure you make the best decision for your household or business.
What Does “Ceasing to Trade” Mean for Tomato Energy Customers?
When an energy supplier ceases to trade, it means the company can no longer operate and provide energy to its customers. However, this is not the same as your power being cut off. The UK’s energy regulator, Ofgem, has a safety net procedure to protect consumers.
For you, as a former Tomato Energy customer, this means:
- Your supply is secure: The lights will stay on, and your gas will continue to flow.
- Your credit balance is protected: If you have built up credit with Tomato Energy, this money is safeguarded. The new supplier appointed by Ofgem will honour this credit.
- You will be moved to a new supplier: Ofgem will run a process to choose a new energy supplier to take on Tomato Energy’s customers.
The Ofgem Process: Will Your New Supplier Be Satisfactory?
Ofgem’s advice is clear: “Do not switch. Wait until they appoint a new supplier for you.” This is to ensure a smooth transition and to protect your credit balance.
Ofgem’s primary goal is to find a new supplier that can take on all affected customers quickly. They will seek the best possible deal from the market, but it’s crucial to understand the reality:
- The “Deal of Last Resort”: The tariff you are moved to by Ofgem is not necessarily designed to be the most competitive on the market. It is a safety net tariff.
- It Might Not Be the Cheapest: The unit rates and standing charges on this new tariff could be higher than what you were paying with Tomato Energy, or higher than other deals currently available.
- You Are Not Locked In: This is the most critical point to remember. While you must wait for Ofgem to appoint the new supplier, you are free to switch to a supplier of your choice immediately afterwards without any exit fees.
You Have the Power to Choose: Don’t Settle for the Default Option
Many customers assume they must stay with the supplier Ofgem chooses for them. This is a misconception. Once the transfer is complete and your account has been set up with the new supplier, you have the right to shop around for a better deal.
This is where making an informed decision becomes vital. The energy market is complex, and navigating tariffs, unit rates, and contract terms can be overwhelming. Choosing the wrong supplier or tariff could cost you hundreds of pounds over the next year.
How Adams Consultancy Can Help You Navigate This Change
At Adams Consultancy, we specialise in helping individuals and businesses navigate exactly this kind of energy market disruption. We act as your expert guide, turning a confusing situation into an opportunity to secure a better energy deal.
Our Services for Former Tomato Energy Customers:
- Post-Transition Review: Once Ofgem has moved you to the new supplier, we will conduct a comprehensive review of the tariff you’ve been placed on. We’ll break down the costs and compare them against the entire market.
- Personalised Supplier Matching: We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. We analyse your energy usage patterns, location, and preferences to match you with suppliers who offer the best value and service for your specific needs.
- Tariff Negotiation & Switching Service: We handle the entire switching process for you. From negotiating with suppliers on your behalf to managing the paperwork, we make the transition seamless and hassle-free.
- Final Bill & Credit Balance Advocacy: If you have any issues with your final bill from Tomato Energy or the transfer of your credit balance to the new supplier, we can provide advice and support to help resolve the matter.
- Future-Proofing Your Energy Costs: We provide long-term strategy advice, helping you understand fixed vs. variable tariffs and when to switch to protect yourself from future market price fluctuations.
Conclusion: Turn a Setback into an Opportunity
The collapse of Tomato Energy is undoubtedly an inconvenience, but it also presents a clear opportunity to take control of your energy costs. While Ofgem ensures your supply continues, their chosen tariff may not be in your best financial interest.
Don’t simply accept the default option. By partnering with Adams Consultancy, you gain an expert advocate dedicated to finding you a fairer, more competitive deal. Let us handle the complexity so you can have peace of mind.
Contact Adams Consultancy Today for a Free, No-Obligation Consultation.
Let us help you navigate the post-Tomato Energy landscape and secure an energy deal that works for you.
Phone: +44 7400 759939
Website: www.adamsconsultancyltd.co.uk
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/adamsconsultancyltd
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adams_consultancy/