Watch Your Powergen Bill

Flapper_2

Just received Jan 2005 bill for the last quarter of 2004. As is the norm it was based on an estimate of usage. However, the estimate provided on this occasion has been grossly UNDER estimated. On the face of it all very well perhaps, providing a low charge just after Xmas. However, as a substantial price increase has been made by Powergen two thirds into the quarter it means that any shortfall in their estimate will potentially be charged at the higher rate at a later date.
I queried this with Powergen and gave my present meter reading (perhaps this is what they wanted). A revised bill has been promised..
Powergen advised me that they had NO RESPONSIBILTY to collect meter readings from the customer although they do use agents occasionally to do so as a service to the customer. I apparently have been lucky to have my meter read once or twice a year.
I told the Powergen representative that morally price increases should only be applied after meter readings have been read by their agent.. I was told that this was not possible due to the cost. The responsibilty for providing meter readings is that of the customer!

peter_the_piper

I'm probably wrong(wife and Daughter tell me I always am) but I thought there were regs to say that meter must be read at least once per 18 month. Sounds like a crafty way of making money. Will watch the EON bill on our nursery.

Just looked at the EON bill and they have increased prices this month from between 30% and 75%, guess who's looking to move.

sergeant121

I read my meters every month and e-mail the readings to my supplier (Atlantic Electric & Gas).

They (personally) acknowledge within hours and send up-to-date bills each month!

As I pay a fixed amount by DD each month, I can see where I am with debits (or, once in a while, credits) immediately.

Flapper_2

Thanks Peter and Heinz for your info. I've only suffered a 5 point something price rise with Powergen although I suspect it was high to start with. I am considering monthly DD for what it s worth. I shall certainly be sending in regular meter readings now I know the score.