Martin Whitfield MSP is urging consumers in South Scotland who have been moved to prepayment meters (PPMs) to submit their feedback to a review being conducted by energy regulator Ofgem.

Ofgem says it is keenly aware of how difficult things are for many households at present with unprecedented rises in energy bills forcing many into energy debt and putting them at risk of being forced onto PPMs.

These concerns have led the energy regulator to set up a detailed market review into PPMs to examine if suppliers are complying with their licence obligations and, where needed, to toughen up protections for all customers, especially those who are vulnerable.

Ofgem is working closely with consumer groups to analyse and act on customers’ experiences, not only on what suppliers tell them and need customers to give them frank and candid feedback about their experience of being moved to prepayment meters – good or bad.

The information gathered will be used to improve the experience for consumers and to help them take action against suppliers who have not met the standards expected.

Martin Whitfield MSP said:

“As energy bills have rocketed over the last couple of years, there have been a number of concerning stories about the way some energy suppliers have treated customers struggling with their bills and moved them to prepayment meters.

“Given the prevalence of this issue and the fact that it usually impacts on some of the most vulnerable energy consumers, I welcome Ofgem’s review of the situation and hope that it will lead to the introduction of greater protections.

“To help this happen, it’s important that consumers input their experiences to the review, good or bad, in order to help ensure that appropriate action can be taken by the regulator.”

Consumers can submit their experiences through an online form at www.castevenage.org.uk/ppm which is open until Thursday 4 May 2023.

Ofgem have also launched a freephone telephone line for those unable to complete the web form – 0800 464 3374.