THRIFTY Sandwell residents are being urged not to miss out on a cash-saving energy scheme which could save them money on their fuel bills.

The council has teamed up with energy auction specialist iChoosr to help people get a better deal from gas and electricity suppliers.

The latest round of the Energy Switch scheme – which works by getting consumers together and using their combined buying power – is now open.

Residents have until Monday, February 13 to sign up for the latest auction, energy suppliers then compete for their custom by offering the best possible energy prices.

Councillor Paul Moore, Sandwell’s cabinet member for regeneration and investment, said: “Many people take the opportunity to review their finances in the New Year.

“Thousands of residents have already taken advantage of the scheme with the average savings being around £300 a year – obviously some people could save less and some people more.

"Residents have nothing to lose and only potential cash savings to gain plus they have the security of knowing they are applying through the council's website."

To find out if they can save money, residents need to complete a simple online form by Monday, February 13.

After the registration period closes, they will receive details of their new deal after Monday, February 27 - which tells them how much they can save by switching supplier.

They then have until Tuesday 28 March to decide whether to accept the new offer.

Residents can sign up at www.sandwell.gov.uk/energyswitch and will need a copy of their latest gas and electricity bills to hand.

Businesses in Sandwell can also take advantage of a similar scheme.

Cllr Moore added: "We are constantly reviewing the ways we reach out to Sandwell's business community.

"In this difficult economic climate, it's important that we do all we can to support our businesses to develop and grow in a competitive environment."

Anyone interested in switching supplier can visit www.sandwell.gov.uk/energyswitch.