Skip to main content
Back to Utility Bills

Energy debt and prepayment meters: your rights

Suppliers must offer safeguards before installing or switching to a prepayment meter for debt.

Utility Bills3 min readReviewed July 2026

Ofgem rules mean suppliers must assess whether a prepayment meter is safe and practicable, especially where there are children, older people or health conditions in the home.

You can ask for a repayment plan, apply to a supplier hardship fund, or request the Priority Services Register for extra support.

If a meter has already been installed and it's unsafe for your household, contact the supplier and Citizens Advice — the meter can be removed or changed.

General information, not personalised adviceThis article is written to inform. It isn't personalised debt or legal advice, and Debt Compass is not authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority. A team member can talk you through the options and point you to a free debt help service or authorised insolvency practitioner before you decide on anything.