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Using separate energy suppliers is now cheaper than going for dual fuel according to price comparison website moneysupermarket.com research.

Brits could save a combined £314 million by using two different suppliers for their gas and electricity.

Paul Schofield, head of utilities at moneysupermarket.com, said: "It's been a common misconception that dual fuel is generally cheaper than taking out two separate deals. But our research shows the tables have turned and now Brits everywhere other than South Wales can save money by separating their energy providers."

The research reveals consumers in North Scotland can save over £21 a year by swapping from Utilita Energy Saver dual fuel to British Gas's Click Energy 3 for electricity and Atlantic's Standard Online for gas, for example.

All regions, other than South Wales, offer savings.

Paul Schofield added: "This shows how important it is to shop around for the cheapest gas and electricity tariffs available for your region and usage. Swapping utility tariffs is a simple click away these days. Consumers should not hold back on swapping or be afraid of having separate providers."

Moneysupermarket.com is encouraging people to make the switch by offering a single £17.50 payment per household for customers changing an electricity or gas provider or tariff.

Here are the savings you could make in your area, based on average annual consumption and payments by direct debit:

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