Following wide consultation with consumer groups, industry and government, Ofgem and others have developed a plan to tackle fuel poverty.

Competition in the energy market has brought lower prices for gas and electricity customers. In gas alone, pounds 1 billion each year has been knocked off the cost of gas to customers since the market opened to competition in 1996.

However, some customers still face barriers to the competitive market. Ofgem's Social Action Plan outlines the work and research needed to remove these barriers so disadvantaged and low-income customers can realize the real benefits the competitive market can offer.

The Social Action Plan contains four areas of activity: * License changes to increase protection for disadvantaged customers. * Action in related areas to drive down the cost of keeping warm. * Further research to gain a better understanding of the issues facing low-income and disadvantaged customers. * Monitoring and review.