When it comes to online shopping, utility and energy companies leave a lot to be desired, according to Siegel+Gale’s Second Annual Global Brand Simplicity Index.

They rank right down at the bottom, frustrating customers with "complex billing structures and unsatisfactory customer service."

The Simplicity Index rates companies for their ease of use online, where customers can save time and money and enjoy a far more efficient and rewarding online experience.

Among the top in the UK are companies such as Google, Amazon, John Lewis, Tesco, and Travelodge. And then, we come to the bottom, where npower and EDF Energy both sit.

Siegel+Gale, a global strategic branding firm, points out that the government has encouraged customers to check if they are on the cheapest available tariffs online, but the company’s research has found that people find this process anything but simple.

Here at BigGreenSmile we’ve encouraged you to shop around too. Outside of the ‘Big Six’ energy companies there are many others offering not only simpler tariffs and straightforward deals, but also the chance to invest in renewable energy and green energy such as solar and wind energy; companies such as Ebico, Ovo Energy, Good Energy and Ecotricity.

You can find them all online, and switching to them is an easy process.

Philip Davies, president of EMEA, said: "Brands that provide simpler interactions and experiences are winning the battle to stand out in the competitive marketplace.

"Simplicity is a powerful tool that helps brands get into consumers’ heads faster, and stay there for longer. As the UK continues to struggle in economic uncertainty, those brands that offer experiences that are clear, direct and easily communicated will forge ahead by generating strong customer loyalty."

So why not give a new and greener energy company a go. They can save you money and time and effort, and you can even save energy (both sorts; yours and, through the use of renewables, our planet’s).

[Image: Kevin]