Crackdown on catch-up energy bills: Ofgem loses its patience with energy providers

Like many households, my electricity meter is not in a terribly accessible spot. Reaching said meter requires a short stepladder or standing on the kitchen counter. That said, there’s no need for crampons.

And so every time someone comes to read the meter, I’m met with the same response. ‘Oh no lass, health and safety. I can’t get up there.’ Needless to say, the meter goes unread.

As a result, and also because I pay by direct debit, I’m one of many whose bills are, for the most part, based on estimations (yes, I know I could send in a reading myself but at some point the lekky company really should do it). Once the meter is finally read, this can result in ‘back-bills’. Also known as ‘catch-up’ bills, they enable the energy company to recover the difference. It’s not surprising that this can sometimes result in large amounts being owed.