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GDF and EDF 'too aggressive'

FNCCR has judged French utility suppliers GDF and EDF ‘too aggressive’ to qualify for its Clair Energie label...

The Fédération Nationale des Collectivités Concédantes et Régies (FNCCR) has judged French utility suppliers GDF and EDF ‘too aggressive’ to qualify for its Clair Energie label, which is a vote of confidence aimed at facilitating consumer choice.

Only two energy suppliers were awarded the label, which was conceived in April, both of them suppliers of alternative energy (Altergaz and Enercoop). But many of the larger suppliers, particularly France’s EDF and GDF, failed to qualify. “This is a product of the fact that the label is perfectly independent,” pointed out a representative for FNCCR. Energy suppliers are judged by various parameters, the most important being basic customer service – such as timely refunds, free helplines and different payment options.

Meanwhile, the French ministry of finance has given the go-ahead for a 5.5% rise in gas prices equivalent to a €0.264/kwh, at the end of April. “For a typical heating bill, this rise will be equivalent to just €4 per month,” explained the minister of finance, Christine Lagarde.

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