The Big Six dominate the energy industry. British Gas, SSE, npower, e. on, EDF and Scottish Power control the British energy market, with an 80 per cent share.

However, there are alternatives. Big six alternatives come by way of independent suppliers, who are doing very well in the current climate. Every year, millions of people switch from the big six to smaller suppliers who offer better rates and better customer service. If you are sick and tired of slow customer service, paying a high price for your energy or you don’t feel you benefit from your current relationship with one of the big six, then take a look at the big six alternatives we have listed below.

OVO Energy

OVO Energy offers great rates and all customers get 33 per cent green electricity (that is, electricity generated from renewable sources). OVO offer both pay monthly and Pay as You Go energy tariffs. OVO is also one of the most modern energy suppliers on our list, allowing customers to quickly check their balance online and submit meter readings online.

Related: Independent energy suppliers – who are they?

Utilita

Utilita are the UK’s biggest supplier of Pay as You Go energy. They don’t offer monthly tariffs, just PAYG, and they are giving away free smart meters too, so that you can see how much energy you are spending. Utilita offer customers £10 emergency credit, are very nice to deal with and have a UK call centre too. They also have fantastic rates.

Spark Energy

Spark Energy position themselves as an energy supplier for people renting property (tenants), however in truth they supply homeowners too. They offer standalone gas or electricity tariffs and dual fuel tariffs, and have several payment methods, including monthly Direct Debit, pay in advance, Pay as You Go and pay on receipt of a monthly bill.

Related: How to Reduce Your Energy Bills in 2016/17

Good Energy

Good Energy are a renewable energy supplier. All the electricity they supply is generated through renewable sources, such as wind and hydro. All energy supplied by Good Energy is carbon neutral so they are a great choice for eco-conscious families. Switching to Good Energy could cut your carbon footprint by 50 per cent and they offer excellent rates.

Ecotricity

Ecotricity has had the lowest number of complaints in the energy industry for six years running. They are excellent to deal with and they have good rates too. They offer electricity and gas to both homes and businesses. They offer one tariff for homes and one tariff for commercial users, so that they can offer the best possible price to everyone.

Related: What are QR codes and why are they on my energy bill?

First Utility

First Utility are the UK’s largest independent energy supplier. They offer excellent rates and good customer service. They are a good alternative to the big six, since they have considerable infrastructure. They also offer a free Cosy smart thermostat with select plans, and they make switching incredibly easy no matter your individual circumstances.