British Gas Resumes Force-Fitting Prepay Energy Meters

British Gas has resumed the practice of force-fitting prepay meters in the homes of customers unable to pay their energy bills. The move follows the lifting of a nearly four-year block by the industry regulator, Ofgem, which had been imposed after the company paid a record settlement exceeding £100 million for previously installing meters in the homes of vulnerable customers during the Russian gas crisis.

Under current Ofgem rules, forced installations are prohibited for households containing children under two, people over 75, or individuals with severe health issues. Suppliers are required to make 10 contact attempts and conduct a welfare visit before proceeding with an installation. British Gas maintains that involuntary fittings remain a last resort and that the company provides support to struggling households.

Fuel poverty campaigners have criticized the timing of the decision, warning that the practice increases stress for households facing high winter energy costs. The Government of the United Kingdom has stated it cannot allow past rogue practices to be repeated regarding the installation of meters in the homes of vulnerable people.