OFGEM LAUNCHES PROBE21 Jan 2015 23:00
The energy regulator Ofgem is launching an investigation into energy firm SSE amid concerns it limits competition in the electricity connections market.
The watchdog said it aimed to increase competition in the market but has come across evidence that the energy firm might have breached competition law, and it will launch an investigation into whether SSE gained an unfair advantage over its rivals.
However, the regulator added that the fact it had launched an investigation into whether SSE had breached regulation, that did not mean the company had been found guilty of any wrongdoings as yet.
"SSE acknowledges Ofgem's announcement of an investigation into its distribution business's provision of electricity connections services in central southern England," the firm said in a statement.
"SSE will co-operate fully with the investigating authorities and will not make any further comment until the investigation is completed."
Meanwhile, Ofgem has published a new set of rules for price comparison websites, which will have to meet stricter standards in terms of how tariffs are displayed.
The watchdog said the decision had been taken to ensure deals were not hidden away from customers and that price comparison websites must meet the rules by the end of March or risk losing their accreditation.
"We are requiring electricity network companies to work quickly to resolve the issues identified in the connections market, to reduce the hassle of getting connected to the grid and help lower costs for customers," said Maxine Frerk, Ofgem's senior partner for distribution.
"We are determined to ensure this part of the energy market works in customers' interest and will use the full range of our powers to do so."
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