Battling with energy giants

Yep, I am currently doing battle with two energy giants.

Unbeknown to me, I switched from EDF to British Gas in December, but the first I heard about it was when a Farewell Letter from the former landed on my doorstep.

This left me very confused indeed, more so when I realised EDF had stopped my Direct Debit.

I didn't notice at first, which is a bit worrying considering my energy bills are very large (it has only recently been pointed out to me that the reason for this is that my oven in next to my fridge). Whoops.

Anyway, I digress.

Several phone calls later I was assured it would be sorted - the mantra of the moment being "human error" as I was told some hapless (ok, he didn't actually say hapless) individual had keyed in the wrong address.

The problem is called an erroneous transfer, which happens quite a lot (they have a special department for ETs after all).

Anyway, because I don't bear grudges I forgave British Gas for taking my energy supply against my will and rekindled my relationship with EDF.

However, 1,254 letters later from EDF and some final demands for payment, I rang them again and explained the situation for the umpteenth time.

"I'm terribly sorry but it appears that British Gas have taken your supply."

"Yes, I know that was in December. We've moved on since then, intact it is April and I want to start a new direct debit."

"Um. British Gas have taken your supply for a second time. Please don't worry, it will be sorted."

Yesterday, after a very busy day ferrying two dogs about along with the Teen and buying the entire container collection at the nearby garden centre, I got home to find yet more final demands for payment, I almost blew a gasket.

Then the phone rang.

"This is the collection department for EDF. You owe us hundreds of pounds."

"I have been dealing with your company for six months. You keep letting me go to British Gas against my will. I do not want to leave you but you are making my life unbearable. I am so furious that I have a jolly good mind to quit all fuel in favour of rubbing twigs or aiming a magnifying glass at the sun, if the sun ever emerges ever again.

"The only communication you can expect from me from this point forward will be via Anne Robinson."

I have written two very strongly worded emails to both MDs.

I wager I shall receive something nice through the post from them in due course.

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