New rules that offer better protection to small business energy customers came into force this week.

The regulations are part of a package of remedies Ofgem announced it would introduce following its probe into energy retail market.

Under the new measures, suppliers must

• Ensure they follow up any diirstep sales with a written quotation for customers, so they can compare this with their current deal.
• Highlight the key terms and conditions available to very small businesses at the time of sale, and provide full terms and conditions in writing.

The new arrangement will also mean that energy companies cannot automatically roll over fixed term contracts for any longer than 12 months.