HUNDREDS of York residents have taken part in a council scheme to get cheaper gas and electric bills.

The Save Money By Switching Energy scheme, with iChoosr, the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, York’s Citizens Advice Bureaux and Age UK York, started operating in December and more than 751 people have already signed up to the scheme.

In York, 242 residents switched, resulting in an average saving per person of £169 over the year.

On that basis there would be a potential saving of more than £40,000 across the city if it were taken up fully.

Councillor Dave Merrett said: “This Energy Switch scheme was about us locally helping our residents get the best possible deal on their energy bills.

“Switching can seem a challenge, especially for those who have never switched or who do not have access to the internet.

“This scheme’s success is great news and has enabled everyone who registered to make a saving of up to £169 a year.”

Owen Daggett, the sustainability manager at the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, said: “The impacts of fuel poverty on people are well documented.

“Switching energy provider can be crucial in reducing energy costs, and through this switching scheme there is a real opportunity to see a reduction in energy bills for families across the city.”

To find out more about the scheme or sign up for future schemes go to york.gov.uk/switchingenergy