On behalf of 1,200 members in the energy company, Prospect National Secretary Emily Boase said: “We understand that recent changes to E.On’s business structure, in particular following the sale of its distribution arm Central Networks, and the wider challenges facing the global energy industry, have necessitated a review of its UK operating model.

“While the loss of any jobs is regrettable, we welcome the commitment from Chief Executive Paul Golby to work closely with the unions and seek to achieve these redundancies through voluntary means wherever possible.

“While it is too early to say how many of our members will be affected, or at which sites, we are relieved to hear that E.On are not proposing to close any of the business’ locations as part of its simplification proposals.”

Boase said the union would be fully engaged in the consultation process, which begins today, and will be meeting management shortly to discuss how the process can be completed by the end of 2012.