Until 1996, British Gas had the monopoly on gas supply in the UK. When competition was allowed in the market, it was believed that gas prices would come down for the ordinary consumer.

ever, many people are likely to stick with their current gas supplier, as they believe switching provider will prove a hassle.

This is even though the fact that switching your electricity or gas supplier can lower your bills – which is particularly useful during difficult economic times.

It also doesn’t have to be difficult to switch your provider. You don’t have to track down all the suppliers in your area and go about contacting them to see if they can lower your costs, you can use a price comparison site.

You may even be able to switch gas supplier on the site itself. Of course, there are other things to consider as well as price when choosing a gas supplier.

You can check out their customer service rating – some sites allow you to review suppliers you have used, so you can see how other people have rated each company before you switch.

Another thing to examine is the distinct payment plans that the suppliers offer. You may be able to save money immediately by switching to an Internet plan. If you are happy to manage your account and receive all your bills online, this could cut down on administration fees.

For those on a low income, you may be eligible for a social payment plan. Energy companies have to provide these payment plans, which are designed to help people in the most vulnerable positions to pay their bills.

For sheer ease, you may select a fixed plan. This means the price of each unit of energy is fixed for a certain period of time. Alternatively, a capped plan means that the price of each unit won’t go up over a set length of time. However, if gas prices fall during that period your energy bills could come down.

Different suppliers also provide their own standard pricing plans. Your choice of supplier will of course be determined by the plans that are available – and the one that is best for you.

This is why price comparison sites will always ask you about your current payment structure and the one you would prefer. You will be able to compare the different plans quickly and easily to see which can save you the most. You can make great savings by changing your gas supplier.