As a result, energy companies were immediately met with - and continue to face - a heavy influx of questions and concerns from consumers. For instance, after energy price increases during 2008 many consumers became worried that energy costs would remain high, or worse, continue to increase. However, while prices did ultimately go down, the original spike left many consumers concerned that a similar increase could happen at any time. These concerns became even more pressing once the economic crisis hit, initiating a pursuit for answers among consumers.



Thus, in response to a sudden increase in questions and concerns from consumers, energy companies have started to reinforce their customer service sectors and provide more resources to help consumers understand and cope with all the changes. One such prominent resource which has been adopted by various energy companies is an online support centre, offering customers a range of informational features.

For example, some companies have included video debate features, which focus on some of the most pressing topics within the energy industry. Other companies allow customers to ask questions of the company directly on the support feature, and then receive answers in a forum format - so other consumers can benefit from the interaction as well. Customers are also often provided with links to prominent topics and issues within the industry, enabling and encouraging further research.

Another tool that many energy companies have implemented is a news feed. With industry developments surfacing every day, a news feed is an effective way to keep consumers up-to-date and in-the-know, so they're not hit with any surprises down the line. Consumers are also able to sign up for regular service from such news feeds, which means news articles are sent to consumer inboxes as they arrive on the company's site.

By keeping the lines of communication open and inviting , energy companies are helping keep consumers informed regarding industry developments. Meanwhile, the more informed customers are the better they can plan for their future.

Customer service on the web, in the form of informational resources and question-and-answer features, is one of the most valuable and effective ways to keep consumers informed, and many energy companies have embraced the tool for the betterment of their customers and their relationship with their clients.

Victoria Cochrane writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.