Scottish Power has been identified as the poorest performing energy supplier in the UK according to recent research findings. The company received low ratings for handling complaints and was considered average in other aspects. However, it was not alone in facing criticism as major players like EDF Energy and British Gas also ranked poorly in a survey conducted by consumer group Which?.
Which? conducted a comprehensive customer satisfaction survey involving nearly 12,000 energy customers and evaluated the internal workings of 17 energy companies. Scottish Power received the second-lowest customer rating at 62% and an overall score of 56% after factoring in various criteria. The company scored poorly in complaint resolution, accuracy of billing, ease of communication, and value for money based on feedback from 780 customers.
EDF Energy fared slightly better with an overall score of 58%, but it was criticized for its limited customer service availability. British Gas scored 59% overall and faced significant backlash for its handling of complaints.
In contrast, lesser-known supplier E emerged as a top performer with an impressive 79% overall score. The company, based in Birmingham, gained praise for its customer-friendly policies, such as no penalty fees for customers looking to switch providers. Despite feedback from a smaller sample of 92 customers, E received high ratings for communication ease and statement clarity.
Octopus Energy secured the second spot with a score of 74% and was recognized as one of the Which? Recommended Providers, alongside E, 100Green, and Sainsbury’s Energy.
Emily Seymour, Energy Editor at Which?, highlighted the disparity in performance among energy suppliers. She advised dissatisfied customers to explore alternative providers offering better value and service.
Responding to the findings, a ScottishPower spokesperson emphasized their commitment to customer service excellence. EDF reiterated its dedication to enhancing customer support, while British Gas highlighted a significant reduction in complaints and favorable satisfaction ratings.
Overall, the research signals a need for energy suppliers to prioritize customer satisfaction and service quality to retain and attract customers in a competitive market.
