Which? responds to the news that the government has published Energy Bill Support Scheme prepayment meter voucher redemption rates by region

Rocio Concha, Which? Director of Policy and Advocacy, said: 

"These latest figures are really concerning, with London particularly badly affected as just over half (52%) of traditional prepayment meter energy bill support scheme vouchers were redeemed in the capital last autumn. This is significantly lower than other areas of Great Britain - possibly due to the fact that there are more renters in the capital so contact information may not be up to date. 

“As an urgent priority, the government, local authorities and energy suppliers must work together to share best practice and quickly improve the scheme to ensure that all customers on these prepayment meters – who are more likely to be vulnerable and on lower incomes – are able to access this vital support without further delay.

“Traditional prepayment meter customers should also be prioritised in smart meter roll-outs where appropriate, so that financial support can be delivered automatically in future. If you are on a traditional prepayment meter and haven’t received your vouchers or are unsure of how to redeem them, you should get in touch with your supplier for more information and to make sure they have the correct contact details.”

ENDS

Notes to editors

Link to government data here.

In December, Which?, Money Saving Expert, National Energy Action, Citizens Advice and Age UK wrote a joint letter to energy firms calling on them to take immediate action to ensure traditional prepayment meter customers are able to access government support – including publishing data on a supplier level.

Which? recently launched a campaign calling on businesses in essential sectors – supermarkets, telecoms and energy – to do more to help their customers through the cost of living crisis. More information is available here.