Energy

Energy companies have agreed to stop forced installations of prepayment meters, industry regulator Ofgem has confirmed. This includes the remote switching of smart meters into prepay mode, as well as physical meter installations through the use of court warrants. It follows reports that some households were being forcibly switched despite being clearly vulnerable. 

Prepayment meter customers typically pay more for their energy than those paying by direct debit. But the Chancellor Jeremy Hunt says from 1 July the "prepayment penalty" will end, cutting bills for over four million households.

A social tariff is the best way to stop millions of vulnerable people overpaying for energy, according to a new report from Citizens Advice published today. The consumer charity says eligible households could save up to £1,500 a year on their bills under the proposals. A social tariff is something MoneySavingExpert.com founder, Martin Lewis, has also long argued for. 

Tens of thousands of financially vulnerable people are likely slipping through eligibility cracks in the £150 Warm Home Discount support scheme, according to MoneySavingExpert.com (MSE). After direct contact between MSE founder Martin Lewis and energy secretary Grant Shapps, the minister has promised he will look into the complaints.

Struggling British Gas customers with prepayment meters will receive a £250 free credit to help with bills. The energy company would not tell us specifically who would be getting the payment but said it will identify those in need and make the payment without the need to apply.

Major energy suppliers STILL have millions of pounds worth in grants – in some cases worth thousands – available to support households experiencing financial difficulties. So check now if you're eligible to claim.

MoneySavingExpert.com and its founder Martin Lewis are among a coalition of organisations today calling on energy firms to take urgent action to ensure households on traditional (non-smart) prepayment meters can access the Government's vital energy help. 

If you're struggling to pay your energy bills and have built up a debt on your account, your supplier may want to move you onto a prepayment meter so they can collect repayments over time. But prepay is about £70 a year more expensive than direct debit (on typical dual-fuel use), and there's an added risk of being cut off from heat or power if you run out of credit. Below, we explain your rights to refuse prepayment.

Millions of households in Britain will get £400 this winter to help with rising energy bills as part of the Government's Energy Bills Support Scheme. Exactly how you'll be paid this money depends on your supplier and how you pay for your energy bills. Below we round up everything you need to know.

Household energy bills in Northern Ireland will be capped from November, the Government has confirmed. An extra £100 will also be given to those who live off-grid in the UK and use alternative fuels, such as heating oil or LPG to heat their homes. Here's what you need to know.