Which UK energy companies (Gas & Electric) supply and install pre-pay meters free of charge?

Question

I have recently bought a house and I would like to have a prepay meter for gas and electric so I can keep on top of my usage. I am currently with Scottish Power but how can I contact them regarding this issue or any other company who will supply and install these meters free of charge? (Area: Oldham, Greater Manchester) Thank you

Answer 1

your crazy!!! i moved in to a house and it had both meter's and it cost us a hundred quid a month then we changed to bill's and it cost us 50quid a quarter for electric and 21quid for gas, you end up paying so much more really in allsorts of charges.

Answer 2

They all install pre-pay meters if you so desire and although the government has stated that energy company's should not charge more for gas/electric this has not filtered through to the consumer yet so its about 11% more expensive a year

Answer 3

You don't get anything free even if they tell you it is they set the tarrif to recover the money

Answer 4

You are mad. You will pay a lot more per unit for a prepay meter and you will have to pay hundreds to have it removed.

Pay by monthly standing order/direct debit  and set it a little higher than you think it needs to be.

Read your meter regularly and adjust your standing order if needed so you don't end up owing lots of money at the end of the year.

Remember to allow for the fact that you will use more energy in the winter.

Answer 5

I used to work for one of the energy companies in the South. They should install it for you for free. Although, it is true, it will be more expensive. I used to work in credit control and understand why some people might struggle and prefer a prepayment meter. However, there are good ways to also pay. Most companies offer a payment card that you can use in the same places where you would top up your key. You can ask to set up a payment plan to pay weekly for example. The best way to do this is straight after you get a bill as this will give you the longest time until your next bill is due (usually every three months). But you have to remember to ask them when you get the bill and set it up on your account. At the same time you can also give them a new meter reading to make sure you are not over or (even worse) underpaying.

Answer 6

Jellebene has it spot on. Please do not get a pre-payment meter, they are 50-70% more expensive. Obviously you don't want to be caught out with a big bill, so do as suggested and set up the direct debit, then keep an eye on the readings.

My girlfriend has a pre-pay, she spends at least £30 per week(!!!) on gas/electricity, my direct debit is £50 per month for my gas/elec combined

Answer 7

I had meters fitted for free, it's good so I know where I'm up to but a pain when it go's and the shop is shut, electricity doesn't go off between certain times at night.

I'm with British Gas now, Scottish power are terrible. Apparently BG don't charge for the metres but i don't check to be honest!! They arefree to fit but they may take a small charge each time you credit the metres x