Customers to make a quick response with new code

It is hoped this will give consumers a way of knowing they are getting the best deal on their energy usage.

This is the latest announcement from the Government to help consumers make the switch and get a better deal, with collective switching and simpler tariffs already introduced.

Despite a feasibility study concluding that there were no barriers to the implementation of QR codes on customer energy bills and that the technology would in fact be helpful in increasing consumer engagement, there has been no voluntary move by the energy sector to introduce QR codes.

Incorporating QR codes or similar on customers’ bills will encourage the development of applications that use this data and will allow smartphone users to transfer valuable data from their bill (such as current tariff name and consumption) to their smartphone/tablet computer, helping them to control their consumption and costs, for example through uploading energy tariff information seamlessly to a price comparison website.

QR codes will also benefit vulnerable consumers or those who do not use smart phones, meaning people with smartphones will be able to help friends and family less comfortable with technology, and trusted members of community and advice organisations including those from the ‘Big Energy Saving Network’ to be able to easily access accurate information to help people who need additional support.

The consultation being published today will seek views from across the industry including third party suppliers who can contribute to the development of smartphone or tablet application development.