Electricity and gas consumers in Northern Ireland will now benefit from a range of additional consumer protection measures as a result of new European legislation.

The legislation, referred to as EU Third Internal Energy Package Directives or IME3, is being implemented by the Utility Regulator and will come into effect from today, 13 September 2012.

The new measures include:

• increased transparency in the information given to energy consumers by their chosen supplier to help provide clarity in relation to their terms and conditions, bills and energy usage;

• a three-week time limit to switch consumers who want to change supplier;

• further protection for vulnerable consumers and strengthening of existing codes of practice that the Utility Regulator will monitor and enforce;

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• additional measures to help consumers in debt;

• advance notification to consumers of changes to terms and conditions or when nearing the end of a fixed-term contract; and

• the introduction of a new mandatory marketing code of practice to prevent mis-selling and covers the practice of door-step selling by regulated energy suppliers.

Shane Lynch, Utility Regulator Chief Executive said: "These measures will deliver a higher level of consumer protection for Northern Ireland energy consumers, while also meeting the requirements of European legislation.

"The legislation introduces clear and enhanced requirements for consumer protection in energy markets across the EU, and aims to ensure that the existing rights of consumers are strengthened and guaranteed, while also delivering greater transparency from energy companies.

"This is extremely timely. As our energy market is becoming more competitive, further protection for consumers is required. These changes will help us ensure that consumers in Northern Ireland are protected from many of the problems seen in other energy markets.

"The new legislation has been implemented through changes to all existing energy company licences. Therefore, as the regulatory authority, we can enforce the implementation of these measures to ensure consumer protection is achieved."

(CD/GK)