Money News – The big three plunge people into debt
Low-income families are being submerged into Debt by three of the most popular energy suppliers who are back-dating charges on pre-payment meters.
Npower, Powergen and Scottish Power have disrupted the lives of many vulnerable customers as they demand back payment for price increases.
As customers paid for their electricity upon usage, they were convinced that their days of energy debt had passed. However, meters which are not recalibrated when prices surge, leave customers with a huge debt Management problems.
Over 750,000 customers have been alarmed by their increased debt and are worried about managing the repayments. The increase in costs could be enough for many people to start seeking debt solutions.
Powergen are currently in the process of replacing their old meters with a new key system which should be in place by December 2007. For customers who are genuinely finding it difficult to cope with the extra debt problems incurred, Powergen will accept as little as £1 per week.
Simple costs cause massive debt
They further go on to say that customers who have not received a new meter by the end of the month, will no longer incur any further charges.
Npower have agreed to dismiss any debt over £70 accrued through belated recalibration. Each case will be dealt with individually and customers who are worried about the added costs can ring to discuss their concerns. They will then be able to work out a payment arrangement with a member of staff. If you require debt advice as a result of increasing utility bills, then it may be time to seek professional debt help.
