Ofgem to Investigate pre-pay meter installed under warrant

[ALEO Admin]

On 26 May 2015, Ofgem announced that it is looking into reasons behind the increase in the number of pre-payment meters (PPMs) installed for non-payment of debt on a warrant visit.

An Ofgem spokesperson said:

“Installing pre-payment meters under warrant should be used as a last resort by energy suppliers when consumers get into debt. It is a way to prevent a customer from being disconnected. Suppliers can only install a prepayment meter where it is safe and reasonably practical for the consumer to use.”

Ofgem also say they are working with Citizens Advice and industry to "further improve the experience of prepayment customers and to better identify and protect customers who are self-disconnecting. We want to make it easier for prepayment customers to switch supplier as this could help them better manage their bills. We will also formalise suppliers’ current voluntary practice of allowing PPM customers with a debt of up to £500 per fuel to switch, by making it an obligation."

For more information, visit:
https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/publications-a ... er-warrant

For a BBC and Mirror report visit: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-32876422
and http://www.mirror.co.uk/money/personal- ... ay-5762199