Uswitch comments on Ofgem protections for struggling customers

Following Ofgem’s proposed new protections for energy suppliers and consumers, Richard Neudegg, head of regulation at Uswitch.com comments: 

“Ofgem acted quickly during lockdown to protect customers who were struggling to pay their energy bills - and it’s good to see ongoing protections will now be strengthened.

“These new rules should help people who are finding it difficult to pay their bills and provide extra support for those on prepayment meters who cannot top-up.

“With the furlough scheme finishing at the end of the month and tighter COVID restrictions coming into place in many parts of the country, many households will find it difficult to make ends meet as the temperatures continue to drop.

“It’s heartbreaking when those on prepayment meters make the decision to “self-disconnect” where they let their energy shut off because they are afraid of the costs, especially at a time of year where we are starting to need our heating[1].

“In these more difficult times, it’s important that suppliers continue to do everything possible to support vulnerable customers regardless of the Ofgem rules. Anyone who is struggling to pay their bills, or top up their prepayment meter, should contact their supplier as soon as possible to find out what extra help could be available to them.”