I picked up a leaflet about this scheme whilst shopping in Bolton the other day. Wigan MBC is listed as a partner organisation but I haven't seen any local publicity about it.

Here's how the scheme works: 1) Register at www.gmfairenergy.com by 28 January 2013. (You'll need to have details of your current energy supplier, tariff and consumption to hand.) 2) On 29 January each provider will bid for your custom by offering their cheapest energy deal. 3) Details of the best-value deal will be sent to you by email. You then choose whether to take up the offer or stick with your existing arrangements.

The organisers promise there is no obligation and no hassle -though I guess that depends in part on whether you are already locked into one of those long-term arrangements like British Gas Price Promise. Worth checking out, though...

Town: Ashton

Yes I read about this a few weeks ago. However,I have switched suppliers 3 times on the "promise" of cheaper electricity and gas. In each case after about 3 months I was told that the amount I was paying monthly was not appropriate for my usage and consequently my monthly payment would need to increase.I am therefore just suspicious of any new claims/offers.

Town: AIM

I’ve been with this WHICH? Recommended provider for 15 months now.

Not one of the BIG 6, but very competitive and regularly top in WHICH? Magazine for services and customer support.

Worth checking out

http://www.utilitywarehouse.org.uk/J50195

Can provide a contact number if interested

Town: Ashton In Makerfield

It's surprising how companies can find you a better deal if you ring up and suggest that you are thinking of switching. My supplier told me that there is a cheaper option available but they couldn't transfer me without my permission which is why I was still on a less favourable deal. The same thing happened with my internet/phone packkage. So it might be worth a call before you do decide to switch.

Town: AIM