Smart Energy GB response to Citizens Advice analysis of prepay tariffs

In response to Citizens Advice's analysis and comparison between prepayment and direct debit tariffs, Claire Maugham, Director of Policy and Communications at Smart Energy GB said: “Smart meters will transform the inconvenient and expensive prepay experience that Citizens Advice has highlighted in its report. They’ll bring more control for people wanting to keep a close eye on what they’re spending, and will remove the need for wide variations in price.

“Between now and 2020, smart meters will be offered to every household - at no extra cost. They will operate in both credit and prepay mode - no more clunky key meters for those who want to use prepay. Smart meters will mean new smart pay-as-you-go tariffs in energy, exactly as we have with mobile phones. And prepay customers won’t have to go to the shop to top-up the key, but will also be able to top up over the phone, via an app, or online.”

-ENDS-

About Smart Energy GB

Smart Energy GB is the not-for-profit campaign for the national smart meter rollout. It’s our task to help everyone in Great Britain understand smart meters, the national rollout and how to use their new meters to get their gas and electricity under control. Our national campaign has already begun and will reach all households and microbusinesses in England, Scotland and Wales.

About smart meters and the rollout

Smart meters will replace the traditional meters we currently have in our homes. They will provide consumers with accurate bills, near real time information on energy usage in pounds and pence, and greater control over their gas and electricity. The smart meter rollout is an essential technology upgrade, unprecedented in its scale, to improve Great Britain’s energy infrastructure. Between now and 2020, every home and small business across England, Scotland and Wales will be offered a smart meter by their energy supplier. More than 1.6 million smart meters have already been installed. Find out how you can get a smart meter from your energy supplier.

Smart Energy GB media contacts

For more information including interview requests, case studies of smart meter users, infographics, photography and video content please contact the Smart Energy GB media team:

Smart Energy GB

Stephen Shawcross: [email protected]; 0203 751 0768

Naomi Adams: [email protected]; 0203 751 0747