The four energy firms add to the long list of energy firms which have ceased trading since wholesale energy prices soared at the beginning of September.

Omni Energy supplied about 6,000 domestic prepayment customers, MA Energy about 300 non-domestic customers, Zebra Power approximately 14,800 domestic customers, and Ampoweruk about 600 domestic customers and 2,000 non-domestic customers.

A huge spike in wholesale gas prices has led to the collapse of numerous small providers in recent weeks including Avro Energy, Utility Point, People’s Energy, PfP Energy, Green Supplier and MoneyPlus Energy. In addition, Bluegreen Energy went bust earlier this week.

Under Ofgem’s safety net, the energy supply of customers of the affected suppliers will continue and funds that domestic customers have paid into their accounts will be protected, where they are in credit. Domestic customers will also be protected by the energy price cap when being switched to a new supplier.

Customers of Omni Energy, MA Energy, Zebra Power, and Ampoweruk will all be contacted by their new supplier, which will be chosen by Ofgem.

Ofgem’s advice to affected energy customers in the meantime is to wait until a new supplier has been appointed and been in contact before looking to switch to another energy supplier. Customers should take a meter reading ready for when the new supplier contacts them.

Justina Miltienyte, energy policy expert at Uswitch.com, said: “This is another hammer blow for the UK energy market. A total of 17 domestic suppliers have left the market since the beginning of September, displacing more than two million customers.

“Although customer numbers are small at 6,000, Omni primarily focused on consumers with prepayment meters, who are more likely to be vulnerable and at risk of fuel poverty. Unfortunately, we may not have seen the end of this situation, but concerned consumers can be reassured that their energy supply will continue as normal and credit balances will be protected.

“If you are affected by your supplier leaving the market, don’t do anything until you are moved to a new provider appointed by Ofgem. Wait for the dust to settle on the current situation before seeing whether there are any better deals available elsewhere.

“Customers should note their meter readings now, and again when contacted by their new supplier, to ensure their bills are accurate.”