A campaign that aims to get discounts for consumers via collective bargaining says it will now look to encourage energy companies to reward loyal customers as well as new account holders.

Almost 80,000 people who signed up to One Big Switch, a consumer network, will be able to save money on their household bills thanks to a special offer the group has “unlocked”.

More than four out of five Irish consumers believe politicians have “very little” or “no” understanding of stress caused by high energy costs.

Householders are hurting from high electricity prices, but most are too busy or find it too difficult to shop around for a better deal.

A new campaign is hoping to recruit thousands of consumers in a bid to negotiate group energy deals for residential and business customers.