Direct debits

QrizB

Uzima said:

I have also been battling with OVO.

You could switch to variable monthly DD, paying each month's bill exactly as it arrives.

Uzima

Yes, may have to cancel the DD and go to monthly payment.
Of course the terms are worse! - we would pay at a higher rate! Their pricing is a bit cynical.
OVO portal is also pushing the 'peace of mind' fixed deals, which - even allowing for the further massive price increase due in October - are extortionate.
Has the whiff of panic.............

Gerry1

Uzima said:

Yes, may have to cancel the DD and go to monthly payment.
Of course the terms are worse! - we would pay at a higher rate! Their pricing is a bit cynical.

I very much doubt that's the case.  I'd expect the same DD authorisation to remain in place with with the same kWh rates and daily charges.  Just call them and ask for Variable Monthly Direct Debit and see what happens.

Of course, you'll have lower bills in the summer and higher ones in winter, but at least you'll be in full control and won't have to worry about getting your credit back if they go bust or you switch to a new supplier.

QrizB

Uzima said:

Yes, may have to cancel the DD and go to monthly payment.

Nobody has suggested that you cancel your DD, as far as I can see. Paying monthly by variable DD should still keep your current tariff.

Uzima said:

Has the whiff of panic.............

You've suggested that twice without any evidence.

OVO are one of the Big Six and they made it through the winter. It should be plain sailing for them now.

Uzima

Yes, you are more than likely correct about Ovo solvency. Though their CS is suffering as a result of lay offs. I get no response to emails. I have no evidence except the fact that they are hell bent on borrowing money from me, way beyond the cost of the energy I am using. No other service provider works like this. 
I'll check DD status tomorrow. I have 'variable DD' currently, but they are the ones who vary the amount. I can't change it. 

pochase

More likely you have a fixed monthly direct debit and they increase or decrease the amount depending on use every few months, usually six months.

A variable direct debit means you give them monthly your meter readings either manually or by smart meter, they calculate your bill and debit you with the use for this month.

This will be cheap during summer, but expect very high bills in winter.