This is the second time this year that Dudley Council has signed up to work with ichoosr and take part in a big community switch.

The switching scheme is 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. The last auction took place in July, and more than 3500 Dudley residents registered to switch.

The next auction takes place on October 3 and people can register now. Once the auction has taken place, people 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:

"We’re really pleased that so many Dudley residents registered for the auction earlier this summer.

"It’s the first time we’ve been able to offer this initiative for quite some time due to a lack of deals being available in the energy market. As we head towards the winter months now is a great time to register."

The more people that sign up to be part of the collective, the greater chance we have of securing better deals on energy tariffs. But remember, there’s no obligation to switch provider. From experience, we know that people have saved hundreds of pounds in the past and we hope this auction can offer a saving once again."

To register with Dudley’s Big Switch, visit the council’s website. Alternatively, people can register by calling Dudley Council Plus on 0300 555 2345, they will then be guided through the simple process.

They will need to have their current tariff details and fuel usage (shown on their most recent bill) to hand.

Anyone who is in debt with their energy bills is advised to speak to the council’s energy advice line before registering to switch. They can be contacted on 01384 817086.