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  • How Direct Debit works
  • Direct Debits
  • How Direct Debit works

How Direct Debit works

How is my monthly fixed Direct Debit worked out?

First we forecast your energy usage, then we calculate your payments. We review your Direct Debit, usually twice a year.

Forecasting your energy usage

Existing customer: we look at seasonal weather patterns and your previous energy usage, based on the meter readings that we have for your account.

New customer: we estimate your future energy usage based on seasonal weather patterns and information you give us when you join - particularly how much energy you used with your previous supplier. If this information is not available, we'll ask you some questions about your home to help us to make an accurate estimate.

Calculating your payments

We calculate the likely cost of your energy for the year ahead by combining:

  • Your predicted energy usage (see above).
  • Your current tariff(s).
  • Any outstanding balance on your account(s) (for existing customers).

For monthly fixed Direct Debit payment, we split this total cost into equal monthly payments. For most people, this means your account will be in debit in the winter and/or credit during the summer - levelling out by the end of the year.


graph showing typical energy annual consumption

Reviewing your account

We review your payments usually twice a year so they reflect your actual energy usage and our latest prices. It's important to make sure you're paying the right amount so you're not building up a big debit or credit on your account. You can keep your account up to date by submitting regular meter readings online.


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