Ofgem Bans Force‑Installing Prepayment Meters for Those 85+ – a Fair Play Move
In a move that feels like a breath of fresh air for the silver‑backed millions in the UK, Ofgem has announced that every household energy supplier has committed to never forcefully installing prepayment meters (PPMs) on homes of anyone aged over 85. It’s all about keeping the golden years comfy and debt‑free.
What’s in the New Code of Practice?
- Ten‑fold effort to connect: Suppliers must try to reach out to their customers at least ten times before they ever think about installing a PPM.
- Full welfare checks before any action to ensure nobody gets trapped in a “tough‑on‑the‑budget” situation.
- When a PPM does end up needed, it must be the last resort—i.e., only after all other options have been thoroughly explored.
Voices That Echo the Change
Jonathan Brearley, Ofgem chief executive, said, “This voluntary code of practice is a minimum standard that clearly sets out steps all suppliers must take before moving to a PPM. If and when involuntary PPMs are used, it must be as a last resort, and customers in vulnerable situations will be given the extra care and consideration they deserve.”
It’s obvious that people aged 85+ are already dealing with enough life complexities—why add a surprise dash of energy supply drama?
Citizen’s Advice and the End Fuel Poverty Coalition say this is only the start
Dame Clare Moriarty (Chief Exec, Citizens Advice) called the voluntary code a “much-needed improvement,” while urging suppliers to obey the rules and Ofgem to crack down on bad practices. “The regulator must also act swiftly to make this voluntary code mandatory,” she added.
Yet Simon Francis, coordinator of the End Fuel Poverty Coalition, remains skeptical: “This code of practice simply does not go far enough and the fact it is voluntary undermines its objective… serious concerns about implementation, such as proving medical conditions without humiliation.”
Quick Takeaways
- Energy suppliers now have to contact customers ten times before any PPM installation.
- PPMs for the elderly are banned unless absolutely unavoidable.
- Ofgem will enforce compliance and possibly make the code mandatory soon.
- Stakeholders call for stricter safeguards and transparent execution.
So, next time you hear “prepayment meter” humming in the hallway, you’ll know your senior loved ones are being treated with the respect they deserve—no more sneaky install nights.
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