Gas and electricity news and energy saving tips

Forced Meter Fittings a Shocking Power Play

In a surprising development, warrants have been granted to allow the forced fitting of prepayment meters in the UK. This decision comes following an uproar surrounding the practice, which had temporarily halted amidst reports of agents breaking into the homes of vulnerable people.

Shining a Light on the Slow Smart Meter Roll-Out

In the digital age, we’re accustomed to the convenience of technology that streamlines our lives and conserves resources. Smart meters, designed to measure and manage electricity and gas consumption, were introduced as a tool to reduce waste and greenhouse gas emissions.

The widespread adoption of these devices has been hampered by concerns over forced switches to prepayment meters and faults, leaving many bill payers sceptical of the benefits.

Ofgem to Crack Down on ‘Shocking’ Customer Service

In a significant move to enhance customer service, the UK's energy regulator, Ofgem, has introduced new rules to prioritise vulnerable customers. These regulations, set to come into effect on 14th December 2023, are a crucial step towards improving customer satisfaction and providing more transparent information to bill payers.

Calls to Pump up Subsidies for Heating Solutions

The UK's journey towards a sustainable, net-zero carbon future has encountered a disappointing roadblock with the heat pumps being adopted much slower than was previously hoped. As the National Infrastructure Commission (NIC) has warned, the Government must expand subsidies to meet its ambitious net-zero goals.

Have the UK’s Net Zero Targets Gone Up in Smoke?

The UK has been committed to reducing its carbon footprint and playing a leading role in global efforts to fight climate change. Still, recent policy changes from Prime Minister Rishi Sunak have raised concerns about the country's ability to meet its self-imposed targets.

In a new report, the Climate Change Committee (CCC) warned that the Government's policy shifts could hinder progress in reducing emissions and lead to higher household bills.

Ofgem Pondering Price Increase to Save Suppliers

Ofgem, the UK's energy industry watchdog, is contemplating a £17 annual increase on household energy bills. This decision is a response to growing energy debts, which have reached a staggering £2.6 billion. These debts result from escalating wholesale prices and mounting cost of living pressures. While this potential rise might be concerning for many, the intention is to safeguard consumers and the energy market.

From Gaza to Gas Bills: How Conflicts Affect British Bill Payers

In recent days, the escalating tensions in the Middle East with the Israel-Gaza conflict has drawn global attention. While this conflict may seem distant from British shores, its potential impact on energy prices in the UK is a matter of concern. In this article, we explore the current situation and how it could affect energy prices in the UK.

Can I Claim Back Credit From My Energy Supplier?

If you pay your energy bills by Direct Debit, you may have found yourself in a situation where your account is 'in credit' with your supplier, meaning that your supplier owes you money. Like finding cash in the pocket of an old pair of jeans, this can be a pleasant surprise, but what should you do in this situation? In this guide, we explain how and when to claim back anything your energy supplier may owe you.

The UK’s Windfall Tax on Gas and Oil

The Government introduced the Energy Profits Levy (EPL) in May 2022. You may have heard this referred to as the ‘windfall tax’ - a response to the unprecedented profits that UK-based oil and gas companies are reaping.

The tax aims to recoup a portion of the massive profits these companies have made due to factors largely beyond their control, such as the post-Covid demand surge and geopolitical events like Russia's invasion of Ukraine. In this article, we will delve into the details of the EPL, its impact on oil and gas suppliers and its implications for the energy sector.

Winter Creeps Closer as New Price Cap Arrives

As a potentially harsh winter approaches, households across Britain are bracing themselves for financial challenges despite a temporary drop in domestic energy prices. Charities warn that while the typical annual bill will decrease, many consumers will still struggle to make ends meet.

In this article, we investigate the impact of fluctuations in energy prices, Government support and the new Ofgem Energy Price Cap.