An energy switching scheme, which could help residents save on their energy bills returns this summer.

Dudley Council is inviting residents to take part in the big community switch, part of a national government initiative which sees councils coming together and taking part in a collective energy switching auction.

By joining together, they are able to get the very best energy deals through the power of bulk buying. People can register until June 21 to receive details on the best deal available on July 3.

They will then have the option of switching energy supplier to the company offering the best deal. There is however no obligation to switch. Councillor Laura Taylor-Childs, cabinet member for housing and safer communities, said:

"I welcome the return of the big community switch in Dudley. In previous auctions, we have helped thousands of people get better deals on their energy and pay lower bills.

"With such significant increases in tariffs in the last 12 months, there were no deals to be had, but there’s now confidence that the auction could offer a saving and we want to help our residents get the best price they can.

"I would urge people to take a few minutes to register and see whether they could benefit from this collective scheme. It’s free and there’s no obligation, but the more people who sign up, the greater the deal potentially."

To register with Dudley’s Big Switch, visit the council’s website. Anyone who is in debt with their energy bills is advised to speak to the council’s energy advice line before registering to switch.