Published on 16th August 2012

Rectangular black plastic device next to green box. Box and device display the words "energy-saving box"

Gloucestershire County Council’s Trading Standards is warning people about a scam where they are offered a plug-in energy saving device.

A man from Cinderford was contacted by phone by a salesperson offering the device. The caller claimed:
  • that the simple plug-in device would save  the customer 40% on their electricity bill
  • to be working with the electricity board and in connection with a number of energy providers 
  • to have contacts to take payment with the major banks
  • that this product was a special offer for pensioners

This is not the first time this scam has operated. Previously, Trading Standards officers tested a number of these plug-in energy saving devices (not believed to be from the same company). They failed to satisfy electrical safety standards and did not deliver any tangible energy savings.

If you receive an unsolicited call from someone offering you an energy saving device, do not enter into any discussions, do not give the caller any information and do not agree to buy the device. Anyone who has already bought one of these devices can contact us through the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 08454 040506.

The device is usually offered for sale for about £99. Previous tests confirm that it does not offer any realistic savings and is potentially dangerous.