Energy giants on a refunds rethink
A NUMBER of the UK’s biggest energy suppliers are to offer refunds more quickly to customers who are in credit.
Those who pay by fixed monthly direct debits can end up in credit if their payments exceed their actual gas and electricity usage.
In the past, suppliers have tended to refund this cash only when it exceeds a certain figure, say £75 or £100, or when the customer requests it.
But several suppliers say they will now automatically pay back this money at each customer’s annual review provided they have an up-to-date meter reading.
British Gas and EDF will refund all credit while E.ON and SSE will offer repayments to customers who are owed £5 or more.
Vincent de Rivaz, chief executive of EDF, says: “Direct debit helps spread the cost through the year. This move means customers in credit will get their money back without asking.
“It’s right to do it and gives customers peace of mind knowing they are not paying over the odds.”