A free scheme to help residents save money on their energy bills has been brought back by Copeland Council.

The Copeland Big Switch returns after a successful initial campaign earlier this year, in which a high number of householders saved large sums on their bills.

The scheme involves the organisers creating a large group of customers interested in cheaper tariffs, who then offer their custom as a group to the energy firm offering the best deal. All a resident has to do is register using their latest energy bills, and they will receive a personalised offer revealing how much could be saved.

There is no obligation to switch.

The previous scheme saw 72 per cent of those who registered save an average £128.

David Moore, Copeland Council’s portfolio holder for nuclear and corporate services, said: “This a great way of using our power as a community to benefit everyone.

“Energy bills can be difficult for vulnerable residents, and this scheme will help people get the best deal and, hopefully, not have to worry.

“Everyone can sign up as this offers the chance of great savings for minimum effort.”

The scheme is run by ichoosr in partnership with Citizens Advice and Age UK. Copeland residents must sign up before midnight on May 22 by calling 01946 598300 or visiting www.copeland.gov.uk/section/copeland-big-switch

They can also register in person at Copeland’s Market Hall offices in Whitehaven or Millom, or Citizens Advice in Whitehaven.