Campaigners have called upon the House of Commons Energy Security Committee to conduct an urgent evidence session regarding the recent developments in the forced installation of prepayment meters (PPMs).
Last week, ScottishPower reportedly obtained 124 warrants from Berkshire Magistrates Court to enter homes and transition occupants to prepayment meters.
The End Fuel Poverty Coalition has penned a letter to the committee, outlining more than ten “significant concerns” about these warrants and requesting their assistance in understanding the circumstances surrounding them.
The coalition, representing more than 70 organisations, has asked the committee to gather evidence from various stakeholders, including ScottishPower, Richburns Ltd, His Majesty’s Courts and Tribunals Service and Ofgem, within the next 28 days.
Campaigners have previously approached government ministers, advocating for a Help To Repay scheme as an alternative to mandatory PPM conversions.
Simon Francis, Coordinator of the End Fuel Poverty Coalition, commented: “Forcing homes onto prepayment meters, which can cut off in the blink of an eye if not constantly topped up, leaves potentially vulnerable customers at risk of disconnection and going without energy.”
Frazer Scott, Chief Executive Officer of Energy Action Scotland commented: “The forced movement of people from credit to prepayment places an unacceptable level of risk to the lives of people. Government, regulator, suppliers and our courts are failing to provide meaningful protection.”
Energy Live News has approached ScottishPower for comment.
