Revised Article:
Switch Up Your Energy Supplier: A Wise Move for 2024
In the face of escalating energy costs for both electricity and gas, North Rhine-Westphalia's consumer advisory centers are urging customers to explore switching suppliers in 2024. Christina Wallraf, an energy expert at the North Rhine-Westphalia consumer advice center, asserted that individuals should look at how much they could save by checking tariff portals.
The intervention from consumer advisory centers stems from a number of changes slated for the new year. The expiration of price brakes for electricity and gas at year's end, alongside the rise in grid charges for electricity, is predicted to push up costs. Gas, too, will see a spike due to an increased CO2 levy and the abolition of the voluntary VAT reduction on March 1, resulting in a 12% increase in taxation. However, some respite is offered by a decline in wholesale electricity and gas prices.
Wallraf advises customers to assess their current expenses and contract obligations, enquiring about alternative tariffs if necessary. A 12-month contract, according to her, strikes a good balance between planning security and flexibility. Moreover, it's essential to scrutinize bonus offers, ensuring that the benefits align with the conditions specified. To avoid questionable providers, a simple internet search can reveal any past issues or problems.
The consumer advisory centers emphasize that disruptions in supply chains, high material and energy costs, more expensive interest rates, grid stability issues, and obstacles associated with meeting renewable energy targets have contributed to the current energy price increases. This contextualizes the advice for consumers to seek out cost-effective energy solutions by considering alternate suppliers.
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