RESIDENTS are being given a chance to make big savings on their energy bills as part of a collective switching scheme.

The Big Community Switch encourages people living in the borough of Stockton to unite as a single buying unit, with energy suppliers invited to bid for their custom in an auction process.

The auction is won by the supplier offering the lowest prices before being offered to everybody who registered for the switch.

Registration for the scheme, promoted by Stockton Borough Council, is open now, and last year’s scheme helped residents save an average of £222.

Councillor Mike Smith, the Council’s cabinet member for environment and housing, said: “It only takes a few minutes to register and it could save you a lot of money. There is no cost and no risk.

“Last year we helped one of our residents save more than £700 a year. And since launching it in 2013, we’ve helped residents save a total of almost £100,000.

“The more people we can get to sign-up, the greater our chances are of getting low prices from suppliers."

Registration closes at midnight on Monday, October 10. For further information on how to register, visit stockton.gov.uk/bigcommunityswitch

Residents who need help to register can contact the Stockton District Advice and Information Service on 01642-633877 to arrange an appointment.