British Gas was the monopoly provider of gas supplies in the UK until 1996. When competition was brought into the market, it was thought that gas prices would come down for the ordinary consumer.

ever, many people don’t switch from their current gas supplier, as they perceive switching provider will be problematic.

This is despite the fact that changing your electricity or gas supplier can lower your bills - which is particularly important during difficult economic times.

Also, it’s not hard to change your provider. Rather than tracking down all the suppliers in your area and get in touch with them to see if they can reduce your bill, 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 in addition to price when choosing a gas supplier.

You can check out their customer service rating - some comparison sites allow you to add reviews of suppliers you have used, so you can see how other consumers have rated each supplier before you switch.

Another thing to pay attention to 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 lower administration fees.

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

For sheer simplicity, you may want a fixed plan. This means the cost 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 rise for a set length of time. However, if gas prices come down your energy bills could lower.

Different suppliers also provide their own standard pricing plans. Your choice of supplier will of course be influenced by the plans that are available - and the one that suits you best.

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