People are being given another chance to reduce their household energy bills with the return of the Big Allerdale Switch scheme.

Allerdale council has again partnered with collective energy switching expert iChoosr to help people source competitive tariffs for their electricity, gas and dual fuel supplies, either on contract or pre-payment meter.

Householders can register their interest online for free and without obligation, and the results will be announced after an auction which takes place on February 11.

The most recent auction, held in October 2018, saw householders in the borough given offers to save an average of £116.

To join the scheme, visit www.allerdale.gov.uk/warmhomes and follow the links.

Councillor Carni McCarron-Holmes, executive member for housing, health and wellbeing, said: “After the expensive festive season, many people often look for ways to save money in the new year. The Big Allerdale Switch is a great place to start as many residents have seen some fantastic savings from the scheme. It also contributes towards the council’s priority of tackling inequality and fuel poverty, so I am delighted to see it return once again. Anyone can sign up, but I would particularly encourage those who are currently on a standard tariff to join as they may not be getting the best deal.”

The scheme is part of the Big Community Switch, which is operated by iChoosr, an independent company with experience in collective switching schemes.

It works by setting up a reverse auction and inviting energy suppliers to offer their cheapest deals for dual fuel, separate supplier contracts or pre-payment meters. The deadline to register is February 10.