Don't Understand Electric Bill

housebug

Besides the fact that I think we've been overcharged (how does it go from £23 to £87 in one quarter?), I don't understand how the usage is billed.

Part of the consumption is at one rate, part at another. Why is that? We're with NPower btw. And, I think I'll start taking my own readings from now on too. This bill is all based on estimates.

espresso

It is all explained on their website.

Why don't you simply provide a real meter reading online here and you will get a re-calculated bill.

housebug

I just went out and read the meter myself. Today, Dec 11th, its 2728kWh. The bill, to Dec 7th, is for 2556kWh. Thats a difference of 172kWh. Have we used 172kW in three days?

Thanks very much Expresso for that link.

espresso

But you said that the bill was based on estimates. If you always provide an accurate meter reading yourself you will always pay for what you have actually used. I know that they should read the meters but in reality most companies only read them perhaps once a year and reply on estimates.

housebug

Yes it is an estimate and would appear to be pretty accurate. I think. I've since found out what the rate differences are. Where I'm from, its all flat rates. How wonderfully confusing the bills are. No wonder its so easy to overcharge people.

Expresso, thanks very much! I'll be sending my own readings in from now on for both the gas and electric. Appreciate your help.

BexTech

Many people didn't like standing charges, so companies 'ditched' those, however they charge a higher rate to start with to cover the standing charge, it roughly works out the same price either way.

tripled

Some companies still let you pay a standing charge and pay a flat rate, or ebico has a flat rate and no standing charge.

BexTech

tripled wrote:

Some companies still let you pay a standing charge and pay a flat rate, or ebico has a flat rate and no standing charge.

Yes some do. But is often pointless having the standing charge, is for us anyway. It is good not having the standing charge if you go away for a month or two at a time and don't use any fuel.

tripled

Only if you phone in a meter reading before you go away, and another one when you come back. But yes it is good for landlords and people who own vacant properties.