Over 94,000 Forced Prepayment Meters Installed in UK Homes Last Year
Shock figures reveal more than 94,000 prepayment meters were forced into UK homes under warrant in 2022. Energy giants British Gas and Scottish Power topped the list, racking up thousands of these controversial installations.
Top Energy Suppliers Lead the Forced Installation Frenzy
- British Gas, Scottish Power, and OVO Energy accounted for 70% of all forced prepayment meter installs, fitting 66,187 devices without customer consent.
- Scottish Power was the worst offender relative to its customer base, slapping over 24,300 meters into homes.
- On average, more than 7,500 meters were forcibly installed every month throughout 2022.
Government Cracks Down on Forced Installations
Energy Security Secretary Grant Shapps slammed the practice after exposing the suppliers’ heavy-handed tactics. He demanded suppliers stop forcing meters on vulnerable households and called for compensation for those mistreated.
“Today’s figures give a clear and horrifying picture of just how widespread the forced installation of prepayment meters had become,” said Shapps.
“I do not want to ban prepayment meters outright, but I have real concerns about unfair treatment during a tough winter when the government supported families with up to half their energy bills.”
“Suppliers must stop this practice for good, and I’ll be watching Ofgem’s review closely to ensure justice and support for those hit by forced installs.”
Energy Bill Support Vouchers Climb as Ministers Urge Action
- Some 7.6 million Energy Bills Support Scheme vouchers have been redeemed by prepayment meter users, knocking up to £400 off energy costs.
- 78% of vouchers have been claimed, rising from 76% in January.
- Suppliers like Shell Energy, E, and Octopus Energy lead redemption rates.
- Scottish Power, OVO Electricity, and British Gas still have nearly 400,000 unredeemed vouchers.
Minister for Energy Consumers Amanda Solloway said: “It’s great to see more people using their energy bill support vouchers, but those who haven’t should claim them ASAP. Suppliers must do everything possible to help.”
“We won’t tolerate mistreatment of vulnerable customers forced onto prepayment meters. Ofgem’s new reporting measures are welcome, but suppliers must also offer redress to those wronged.”
What’s Next? Tougher Rules and More Transparency
Prepayment meters play a vital role letting customers pay-as-you-go and avoid debt. But forced installations are now under the spotlight after British Gas broke into homes to fit meters.
Following government intervention, magistrates’ courts halted all forced installation warrants. Ofgem has opened a full review, demanding energy companies revisit past cases and compensate affected customers.
New protections announced in the Budget will ensure prepayment meter users no longer pay more than other customers for energy.
The government is continuing its campaign with charities, consumer groups, and local leaders to spread awareness about remaining unused energy bill support vouchers via social media, community radio, and even roaming advert vans nationwide.
The message is clear: forced prepayment meters must stop, and householders must get the help they deserve.
