UK-based energy firm Npower is expected to cut up to 4,500 job cuts in the UK as part of a restructuring plan to make it more profitable, reports BBC News. Under the restructuring, Npower's owner Germany-based E.On will merge computer systems to save money. Unions have called the action a "cruel blow" for the company's workers in the run-up to Christmas. The company said reports from unions of 4,500 job cuts were of the correct "order of magnitude", but that the final figure would not be announced while it is still consulting with unions.  Johannes Teyssen, E.On Chief Executive, commented, "The UK market is currently particularly challenging. We've emphasised repeatedly that we'll take all necessary action to return our business there to consistent profitability." Trade union GMB said, "Npower is a poorly managed company with significant losses in the UK but it's always the workers that face the brunt of poor management coupled with regulation that sends work overseas whilst sacking energy workers in the UK."