Utility Regulator consults on energy suppliers codes of practice

Published:

Consultation opened on . Closing date at 13:30.

Summary

The Utility Regulator today publishes a consultation on the implementation of energy suppliers Codes of Practice (the Codes) for regulated energy suppliers in Northern Ireland.

This consultation seeks views and comments on the proposed minimum standards guidance for energy suppliers’ Codes. This guidance will include interpretation of the relevant licence conditions and detail of the minimum standards which are required in order to ensure consistency and standardisation across suppliers.  These Codes will ensure that customers, and in particular vulnerable customers, are protected in their relationship and dealings with electricity and natural gas suppliers. The paper consults on the following Codes of Practice:

• Code of Practice on Payment of Bills
• Code of Practice on Provision of Services for persons who are of Pensionable Age or Disabled or Chronically Sick
• Code of Practice on Complaints Handling Procedure
• Code of Practice on Services for Prepayment Meter Customers

In order to encourage and facilitate full stakeholder engagement in this consultation process, the Utility Regulator will hold a workshop during the consultation period.  Both industry representatives and stakeholders from consumer, community and voluntary organisations will hold a workshop during the consultation period.  Both industry representatives and stakeholders from consumer, community and voluntary organisations will be invited to attend. A provisional date of 22 May 2014 has been set for this workshop and details will be available in due course.

Copies of the document will be made available in a range of accessible formats on request.