Natural gas customers have the option to switch to the regulated gas market, where prices are set by the Energy Services Regulatory Authority (ERSE), according to DECO PROteste. They explain that the “regulated tariff is the most cost-effective option for most consumption profiles“.
DECO PROteste studies indicate that “for the majority of families, this tariff is advantageous compared to options available in the liberalized market,” as stated in an article shared by the consumer protection organization on its official website.
However, “pay attention to communications from your current supplier,” since “all changes to contract terms must be communicated 30 days in advance of becoming effective.”
“This allows you to decide whether to accept the new proposal or seek a more favorable one in the free or regulated market,” they explain.
Can it be done online? How?
Yes, DECO PROteste notes that “joining the regulated market has been available since September 2022 and can be done on the website of the last resort supplier (CUR) of your area,” and “alternatively, you can also join in person at a supplier service desk.”
“Each municipality is serviced by a single last resort supplier (CUR). However, since not all municipalities have full natural gas coverage, you may need to confirm whether your residence has access to this type of supply,” DECO PROteste’s site states, providing a map here to find out the supplier for your area.
You should also know that the “transfer process to the regulated gas market is free of charge.”
Is it necessary to cancel the current contract?
No: “When joining the regulated market, the new supplier will handle the transfer of your contract without any interruption in supply and at no cost. After signing the new contract, the change process can take up to three weeks to complete. Within six weeks after the change, you should receive a final bill from the previous supplier to settle accounts. From that point, natural gas consumption will be billed solely by the new supplier.”
Additionally, “most gas contracts do not require a commitment period, meaning no penalties are charged upon exit. However, if you have subscribed to other additional services (such as maintenance) that are subject to a commitment period, you may need to ensure payment until the end of the annual period.”
The following documents are required to switch to the regulated gas market:
- the contract holder’s identification document;
- the Universal Installation Code (CUI). This information is mandatory on all gas bills;
a proof of address, which can be the latest bill from the previous gas supplier; - the IBAN, if you wish to subscribe to direct debit for bill payments;
- and an email address, to receive bills in electronic format.
