BBC Expert Explains 5 Groups Protected from Forced Energy Meter Installation

A BBC expert explained rules about energy meters.

A BBC expert talked about five groups in Britain who cannot be forced to use prepayment meters. Some energy companies were installing these meters without permission three years ago.

Energy firms can still install meters without consent in some cases, but there are rules to follow. A BBC correspondent explained the situation on a TV show.

The correspondent said some companies were forcing their way into homes to install meters. People would come home to find a new meter installed without their knowledge.

The correspondent said there is a process firms must follow before installing meters.

Since a scandal three years ago, the energy regulator has made new rules. However, the practice of forced installation is not completely banned.

The correspondent said it is still possible for meters to be installed if people are in debt. But there are more protections in place now.

There are five groups of people who cannot have meters installed against their will.

These groups include:

The correspondent said people who fit into these groups do not have to worry about forced meter installation. Even if you are not in these groups, energy firms must follow a longer process.

This process starts with getting a court warrant to enter the property. The firm must then try to contact the person multiple times.

Prepayment meters allow users to pay for energy before using it.

After getting a warrant, the firm must do a welfare visit with audio and video recording. This is to ensure the person is not in a protected group.

If a meter is installed, the person is entitled to a £30 credit or a non-disconnection period. Energy suppliers may consider a prepayment meter for people struggling with debt, but it should only be done as a last resort.

An investigation found that some debt agents had broken into homes to install meters. British Gas has agreed to pay £20m to settle the investigation.

The boss of British Gas apologized for what happened. A total of 40,000 customers had meters installed without permission between 2022 and 2023. Other energy firms have also agreed to pay compensation.

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