Ofgem lifts the ban on forced pre‑payment meter installs
In a move that has sparked both relief and alarm, Ofgem has granted EDF, Octopus Energy, and Scottish Power the green light to re‑introduce involuntary pre‑payment meters (PPMs)—but with strict new safeguards. The power‑industry ban that had kept these sharp‑tacked meters out of UK homes is finally over, and the regulators are making sure that the rollout happens responsibly.
What’s the new checklist?
- Each company must try reaching a customer at least 10 times before they can fit a PPM.
- After the 10th attempt, a welfare visit is required.
- Consumers can flag payment worries early—so suppliers get a chance to discuss cheaper options before a meter is installed.
Why the controversy?
Jonathan Bean, from Fuel Poverty Action, slammed the decision: “We’re horrified that Ofgem now allows these companies to break into homes and restrict energy during winter. It will leave many people cold and traumatized.”
While the regulations aim to give households control over their bills (and help with budgeting), there’s a real fear that a forced switch‑on of PPMs might drive families to shut off heating just to dodge a pricey slam‑dunk bill.
Ofgem’s response
Tim Jarvis, Ofgem’s Director General for markets, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to consumer protection:
- “Suppliers must exhaust all other options before considering forced PPM installation.”
- “We’ll take action if suppliers act irresponsibly.”
- “Many households value the pay‑as‑you‑go control of these meters.”
- “We’ll keep reviewing the rules to guard the most vulnerable.”
Bottom line?
Boundary‑setting metering means people can say “NO” before anything done automatically. But the rollout’s success hinges on strict follow‑up, empathy, and, most importantly, ensuring that homes stay warm and budgets stay sane.
Rescue Mission: Clare Moriarty Unleashes Truth About Energy Debt Wars
What the CEO says (And why you should listen)
Dame Clare Moriarty, the fearless chief executive of Citizens Advice, has pulled the curtain on a deep‑rooted problem in the energy industry. She wasn’t just pointing fingers at a single “bad apple”; she says the whole tree is rotting. The “rules” that are supposed to safeguard consumers have slipped through the cracks like a loose sock in a washing machine.
“Last winter, we all saw that the rotten core of debt collection practice in the energy sector wasn’t just a one‑off glitch,” Moriarty told us. “The rules simply weren’t being followed.”
From Force‑Fit to Fair‑Play
- Temporary ban ends soon – The sweeping ban on force‑fitting (removing meters without a prompt) is drawing to a close. What’s next? Companies need to wage a new war: proving they haven’t locked out the wrong people.
- Denied meter mandates, no cause? The CEO asks: “If a customer’s meter is being taken out, can we confidently say it’s not a mistake?” The answer should be a resounding no. They must provide real evidence that the meter is legitimate.
- Proactive watchdogs – Ofgem (the Energy Market Regulator) is supposed to keep a hawk eye on the suppliers. If a red flag pops up, act on it before the ‘deadline’ slips past.
Why This Matters to You
Think of it like this: Imagine your bank giving you a credit card with “no limits” and then suddenly refusing your rent. That’s what the energy suppliers were doing to millions— forcing meter disconnects and tossing debt collectors into the mix. The news of the ban and Moriarty’s fiery words are a sign that the guardians have finally decided to watch the market even after the sun of temporary restrictions sinks.
Take Action
• Double‑check your energy bill and meter status before making any payments.
• File a complaint if you feel unfairly targeted.
• Keep your receipts and paperwork handy — it’s your ammunition.
Kudos to Clare Moriarty, for turning the energy audit into a battle that people can rally behind. It’s like the industry’s got a new sheriff, and this one definitely doesn’t play by the old, shady rules.
Know your rights, stay informed, and let no one pull the plug on your future without proof.
