Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, what the average cost to a consumer is of the (a) installation and (b) removal of a pre-payment meter.

The Department does not hold the information requested.

In June this year Ofgem published a report of its Prepayment Review: 'Understanding Supplier Charging Practice and Barriers to Switching' - https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/sites/default/files/docs/2015/06/prepayment_report_june_2015_finalforpublication.pdf.

Ten of the 19 suppliers who offer prepayment meter tariffs do not charge for the installation of prepayment meters. Of the companies that charge for home visit and the cost of physical prepayment meter installation Ofgem found the cost ranged from £46.84 - £160.00 for customers who gave consent and £69.00 - £179.96 installed under warrant.

Nine of the 19 suppliers do not charge for the removal of prepayment meters. Of the companies that charge Ofgem found the cost ranged from £46.84 - £160.00.