THE Government's electricity regulator, Ofgen, believes that millions of people are paying too much for their electricity.

The reality is that most people are paying too little.

The typical electricity bill does not include the cost of the damage caused by climate change and acid rain. Nor does it include the cost to the taxpayer of subsidising the failing nuclear power industry.

If people really want cheap electricity which reflects the true cost of the energy they use, they should switch to a supplier who can provide them with electricity from renewable sources.

They also need to make sure their home is well insulated and energy-efficient.

Details of how to change electricity supplier and how to save energy in your home are available from the Energy Efficiency Advice Centre on 0800 512012.

Josie Downs,

York & Ryedale Friends Of The Earth,

Peasey Hills Road,

Malton, York.

Updated: 11:22 Wednesday, June 04, 2003