Key Takeaways

• Amazon is still selling unsafe ‘energy-saving’ plugs despite previous commitments to remove them.
• Liberal Democrat MP Joshua Reynolds has called Amazon to account for these products, citing their potential fire risks.
• The plugs do not meet UK safety standards and have been found ineffective in reducing energy bills.

Ongoing Issues with Energy-Saving Plugs

Despite assurances from Amazon, fake ‘energy-saving’ plugs continue to be sold on its platform. First identified by consumer group Which? in 2025, these plugs have raised serious safety concerns due to their alleged fire risks.

In June, Liberal Democrat MP Joshua Reynolds emphasized the dangers presented by these plugs at a parliamentary hearing, urging Amazon to take responsibility for their presence on the site. In August, Amazon’s UK Director of Public Policy, Monica Ariño, claimed in a letter to the House of Commons Business and Trade Select Committee that these products had been removed, attributing the oversight to a technical issue in the retailer’s automated detection system.

However, recent checks revealed that these suspicious plugs are still available for purchase on Amazon UK, despite the company’s promises. Reynolds expressed frustration, stating that he would formally ask Amazon for clarification, noting the repeated appearance of these problematic products as sponsored listings.

Which? initially flagged these plugs during testing against products from other retailers, including eBay and TikTok Shop. The findings showed no evidence that the plugs functioned as advertised, and the sale of such devices is illegal in the UK, as they fail to meet fundamental safety standards.

The plugs often claim to be ‘voltage stabilizers’ and ‘surge protectors,’ suggesting they can help cut energy costs. With rising energy prices, their affordability of £10-£15 makes them appealing, but they pose significant safety hazards. Tests revealed many plugs had poorly fitted socket pins, with issues like incorrect sizing and fragility. Some plugs did not adhere to basic safety measures due to substandard manufacturing practices.

Amazon has not yet issued a statement regarding the current availability of these products or addressed the ongoing concerns raised by lawmakers and consumer advocates. The company was contacted for comment, and updates will be provided if a response is received.

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