Dear Alun Ffred Jones AM,

I am writing following the evidence session of the Environment and Sustainability Committee’s inquiry into fuel poverty schemes in Wales. I was grateful for the opportunity to give evidence, along with my colleague William Baker, particularly given Citizens Advice statutory role to represent energy consumers.

At the inquiry, I mentioned my concerns regarding the Competition and Market Authority’s (CMA) energy market investigation, and how it will work in Wales.

Citizens Advice responded to Ofgem’s consultation on the referral, making the point that the need to consider devolved issues should be made explicit within the terms of reference of the investigation. Whilst no such reference was included, I believe it is important that the CMA investigation takes full account of the issues that energy consumers face in Wales.

Citizens Advice Cymru is keen to ensure that the CMA are mindful of how each of the following impacts on how the energy market functions in Wales;

- Current devolved policy

- Potential future devolved responsibilities

- The different shape of the supplier market in Wales

- The unique demography and geography of Wales

I enclose a short briefing note which expands on these issues. I am sure you would agree that it will be important to ensure any reform resulting from the investigation avoids unintended consequences for consumers in Wales.

I would be grateful if, as Chair of the Environment and Sustainability Committee, you would consider raising this issue with the Minister for Natural Resources, Culture and Sport asking him to make representations to the CMA on behalf of the Welsh Government.

I would also suggest you may wish to make representations to the CMA directly on this issue, and consider drawing this to the attention of your Westminster colleagues. I also feel there may be an advocacy role for the Wales Office to ensure the CMA takes these issues seriously, and would appreciate any representations you could make in this regard.

I would be happy to meet you or your colleagues to discuss any of this in more detail.

Yours sincerely,

Andrew Regan

Energy Policy Manager, Citizens Advice Cymru