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Metering 'scandal' laid bare by watchdog

A consumer group has slammed the extra energy costs levied by suppliers on those using prepayment meters.

energywatch said yesterday that the firms should not skew pricing towards those customers on automatic and online payments.

Figures from the watchdog show that, on average, metered customers pay £255 more per year than those on direct debits.

This was seen to be especially unfair as it is those on low incomes, some of whom do not have bank accounts, who have no choice about using meters.

Around one third of the 4.5 million households who spend more than one tenth of income on fuel are on a meter.

Adam Scorer, energywatch director of campaigns, said: "It is simply scandalous that some of the poorest people in society are being forced to pay 31 per cent more for their energy than those who have the means to access cheaper deals.

"This discrimination by energy companies is hurting those that most need help and is seriously undermining the fight against fuel poverty."

He added: "Wringing our hands isn't enough. energywatch will be applying maximum pressure on suppliers to change - government, regulators, MPs and others need to do so as well."

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