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12/11/06

Guardian Unlimited: MEPs seek break-up of dominant energy groups - by David Gow

For the complete report in the Guardian Unlimited click on this link

MEPs seek break-up of dominant energy groups - by David Gow

The European parliament will this week urge the EU to boost consumer rights and drive down electricity and gas prices by forcing the break-up of large continental energy groups and introducing far more competition into the market, the Guardian has learned.

The 732 MEPs will vote overwhelmingly on Thursday in favour of legislation to enact "ownership unbundling" - the sell-off of power and gas transmission networks by incumbent operators who use their current ownership control to squeeze out new rivals. European energy regulators issued a similar call last week.

The EU will also be pressed by the MEPs to adopt a citizens' charter setting out enhanced rights for consumers, including greater information about charging and easier ability to switch suppliers. European consumers tend to face much higher bills than UK customers because of the dominance of large incumbents.

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