Ofgem says that, currently, such energy users face charges, which can include court costs, ranging from £200 up to £900 to have a prepayment meter installed under warrant. Ofgem are proposing to cap the cost at £100 or £150 for all customers.
The outcomes intended are that:
- Installations of PPM under warrant are avoided wherever possible, and only used as a last resort. Ofgem want to increase the incentives on suppliers to engage with customers in debt to support them (eg putting them on debt repayment plans).
- Suppliers do not impose high costs, and make their charges and process more consistent and transparent.
- Consumers in the most vulnerable situations are protected, from both costs and process which would exacerbate harm.
For more information, see Ofgem's press release:
https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/publications-a ... -consumers
the following bbc news report:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-3734 ... ow_twitter
and Ofgem's consultation page:
https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/publications-a ... -proposals
