More customers are considering switching in the next 12 months, Accenture said in releasing its The New Energy Consumer: Thriving in the Energy Ecosystem research

In 2016, 37 percent of consumers in competitive markets reported being likely to switch to a different energy provider compared to only 28 percent in 2015, a figure that rises among digital users, Accenture said.

This figure increases to 73 percent, who would consider switching, if a seamless experience could not be provided, Accenture said

Accenture additionally said, "In addition to direct competition from other energy providers, non-traditional players and new market entrants also pose a risk. Eighty percent of all consumers would consider alternative providers, including specialized energy services companies, phone and cable providers or retailers, when purchasing not only energy-related products and services but also electricity."