People’s Energy ceased trading last week, one one four smaller British energy suppliers that have collapsed over the past month amid soaring wholesale energy prices, with speculation that more could follow.
“This follows a competitive process run by Ofgem to get the best deal possible for customers,” said Ofgem.
“Outstanding credit balances, including money owed to both existing and former domestic customers of People’s Energy will also be honoured.
“For existing People’s Energy customers, energy supplies will continue as normal after they switched over to British Gas on 19 September 2021.
“Customers of People’s Energy will be contacted over the coming days about the changes.
“If customers wish to switch supplier they can shop around, but are advised to wait until the transfer has been completed.
“Customers will not be charged exit fees if they decide to switch to another supplier.”
Ofgem’s director of retail Neil Lawrence said: “I am pleased to announce we have appointed British Gas as the new supplier for customers after People’s Energy entered insolvency.
“We understand that this news may be unsettling for customers, however they do not need to worry.
“Their energy supply will continue as normal, and all domestic customer credit balances held on their accounts will be protected by British Gas.
“Your energy supply will not be interrupted.
“British Gas will be in contact with customers next week with next steps.
“Once transferred to British Gas, customers can ask to be put onto another tariff, but should customers wish to switch, we advise waiting for the transfer from People’s Energy to be completed.”
People’s Energy customers can access more information at www.britishgas.co.uk/energy/peoples-energy.html or by calling 0333 202 1052 for credit customers and 0333 202 9742 for PAYG customers.
Centrica CEO Chris O’Shea said: “We welcome People’s Energy customers to British Gas and we’ll ensure the switchover is as smooth as possible.
“We’re a brand trusted by millions and we’ll be working hard to gain the trust of our new customers too – so that they not only join but choose to stay with us.
“Benefitting from the range of advantages that come with being a British Gas customer they’ll have 100% zero carbon electricity and access to exclusive offers on services like boiler cover, Hive products and British Gas rewards.
“The actions we have taken over the past couple of years mean Centrica is in a robust financial position, and, as a responsible energy supplier built on a sustainable model, we are well hedged for the coming winter.
“We have now taken on the customers of four failed energy suppliers through Ofgem’s Supplier of Last Resort process in 2021.”