A SCHEME that helps people to save money on their gas and electricity bills by using collective bargaining is offering a second opportunity to take part.

Darlington Borough Council is taking part in the Big Community Switch, a collective energy switching scheme, which helps people save money on gas and electricity bills by auctioning the right to supply power to those who have signed up in bulk.

The first round of the scheme saw about seven in ten people who signed up in Darlington save money on their dual fuel energy bills.

The highest average saving in Darlington was £130 for dual fuel monthly energy bills.

Residents, businesses and community organisations can register for free for with no obligation to switch.

Councillor Chris McEwan, Darlington Borough Council’s cabinet member for economy and regeneration, said: “We are very excited to be part of the Big Community Switch and to work with iChoosr to help people in Darlington lower their energy bills.”

An auction will be organised after the registration period closes and householders will receive an offer telling them how much they can save. They can then decide whether or not to accept the offer.

To take part, visit darlington.gov.uk/bigcommunityswitch

Householders can receive help with registering by contacting Darlington Citizens Advice Bureau on 01325-256999 or emailing admin.desk@darlingtoncab.co.uk

Registration for householders will close at midnight on February 17.

Businesses and community organisations can speak to Make It Cheaper on 0800-088-6974 until March 30.

Both organisations will be closed December 24 to January 1.

People looking to sign up should have a copy of their current bill to hand when registering.