OFGEM, the energy watchdog has announced plans to help businesses change their energy supplier more easily.

One of the regulator's concerns is that some firms are being automatically rolled over into new contracts, which can last up to three years, often without their knowledge. It has also promised to crack down on suppliers that prevent firms from switching supplier. The pledge comes as part of its a general overhaul of the energy market. Research has found that some businesses have been prevented from switching because of a high number of objections from suppliers. Ofgem said it wanted businesses to get a clear warning when their contracts are due to end and what they can then do to find a new energy supply deal.

Ofgem's chief executive, Alistair Buchanan, said: "During our investigation into the energy market, businesses told us about a range of problems they were having with energy suppliers and also some energy brokers.

"As we have demonstrated in the domestic market, we will also take a tough line on any suppliers we find systematically breaching rules designed to protect businesses."

Ofgem is also planning to ask the Government for new powers to take enforcement action directly against brokers for any misleading marketing in the business sector.