Big Six challenge watchdog's approach to energy probe

However, some suppliers feel the CMA should take a broader view of the industry.

E.ON wants “intrusive regulation and the political climate” included in the “harm” list, with SSE believing that increasingly complex and

onerous regulatory obligations now filling 777 pages, compared to 120 in 2007, have constrained competition.

The CMA has been taken to task over its claim that opaque pricing and low levels of liquidity mean the market is not functioning efficiently. All of the Big Six reject the argument, maintaining it does not represent a barrier to market entry.

Scottish Power said the CMA’s assertion that vertical integration was not benefiting customers “does not appear credible”.

Centrica, the owner of British Gas, said the “low level of trust” among consumers is the most serious problem

facing suppliers in the retail market. EDF complained about a lack of “customer engagement” and is concerned about customers who are not shopping around.

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