Essex residents have already saved nearly £1million in the Essex Energy Switch.

Residents can now sign-up again from next week and let the energy companies bid to supply your home for the cheapest price.

The launch of this year’s Essex Energy Switch will take place at the High Chelmer Shopping Centre in Chelmsford on Tuesday, December 1, and residents can sign-up online.

The Energy Switch is a county wide initiative that aims to cut the prices that residents and small businesses pay for gas and electricity. People who wish to take part must register their interest between the start date of December 1 and closing date of February 1, 2016.

The prices offered by energy providers will be calculated based on how many people register and their current usage, so residents really have nothing to lose but a lot to gain.

Cllr David Finch, Leader of Essex County Council said: “This scheme is an unmissable opportunity, even for those who believe they are already getting the best prices available to them.

“The scheme is completely free and registration will take just five minutes. There is no obligation to switch providers following the auction - it really is a win-win for all involved.”

Once the registration period has ended, energy providers will bid against one another and whoever can provide the cheapest energy rate will win the custom of those who have registered.

If registrants will not be saving money by switching, they do not have to switch from their current providers. Participation is completely free and there is no cost to register or switch providers.

Following the success of previous years’ campaigns, Essex County Council is reaching out once again to residents and small businesses to take part in the switch and to cut down their energy bills, please visit www.essex.gov.uk/energyswitch for more information and to find out how to take part.