This ‘Chart of the week’ comes from Ofgem’s latest research on the impacts of COVID-19 measures on energy consumption and customer’s financial wellbeing. Published on 6 November, the findings presented come from the third wave of this research, with fieldwork being conducted in April, May, and October.
While those reporting as being concerned about paying for their energy held steady between May and October 2020, there has been an increase in concerns about topping up prepayment meters (PPMs). The research indicates that:
- 30% of PPM customers are worried they may not be able to top up their meter because they cannot leave home.
- 27% worry they may not be able to top up because their top-up shop is closed.