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Written question asked by Imran Hussain (Labour) on Monday, 17 November 2025, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 19 November 2025. It was answered by Martin McCluskey (Labour) on Tuesday, 25 November 2025 on behalf of the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero.

Energy: Meters

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps she is taking to end the higher standing charges paid by prepayment meter users; and if she will make an assessment of the impact of that inequality on low-income families in Bradford East.

Answer

Since 1 April 2024, under the price cap, Ofgem has levelised standing charges for prepayment meter and direct debit customers and implemented a process of cost reconciliation for suppliers. This reduces the standing charges of consumers with prepayment meters, while each direct debit consumer pays more than they would have otherwise done.

This ends the inequity of people with prepayment meters, many of whom are vulnerable, being charged more up-front for their energy than other consumers. The Government knows too much of the burden of the energy bill is placed on standing charges. We are working with Ofgem to address this.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
91392
Session
2024-26
Subjects
Energy Low incomes Meters Standing charges Pre-payment Bradford East
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk