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Why Consumers Switch Energy Suppliers: The Role of Individual Attitudes

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  • Xiaoping He
  • David Reiner

Abstract

ABSTRACT Since 2008, fewer customers switched suppliers in British electricity and gas markets despite the potential for financial gains, suggesting that psychological factors may affect switching behaviors. Using a unique nation-wide British survey, we explore the influence of consumers’ attitudes and perceptions on switching behaviors and assess the differences in switching propensity across different groups. Support for simplifying energy tariffs, professed less difficulty in understanding energy bills, expected difficulty in changing suppliers and lack of attention to the issue of energy prices are associated with lower switching activity. At a time of high saliency, political party voting intention was strongly related to switching. Unlike the bivariate analyses conducted by the regulator and the competition authority, our multivariate analysis show few demographic factors affect the likelihood of switching except for educational attainment and tariff payment patterns. Remedies aiming to encourage switching cannot be targeted correctly unless the supporting analysis is robust to alternative model specifications.

Suggested Citation

  • Xiaoping He & David Reiner, 2017. "Why Consumers Switch Energy Suppliers: The Role of Individual Attitudes," The Energy Journal, , vol. 38(6), pages 25-54, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:enejou:v:38:y:2017:i:6:p:25-54
    DOI: 10.5547/01956574.38.6.hxia
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Chen, Huanhuan & Li, Jinke & O'Leary, Nigel & Shao, Jing, 2025. "Higher prices in a more competitive market: The paradox in the retail electricity market in the United Kingdom," Structural Change and Economic Dynamics, Elsevier, vol. 72(C), pages 374-390.
    2. Defeuilley, Christophe, 2025. "Retail electricity markets in Europe: Taking stock, looking ahead," Utilities Policy, Elsevier, vol. 97(C).

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