Why does OVO energy review my Direct Debit amount?

How is my starting Direct Debit amount calculated?

When you switch to us, we’ll use your annual usage figures to calculate how much your energy will cost over the year. Once we’ve got the annual amount, we’ll divide this into 12 - this will give us the Direct Debit amount.

You should be able to find out your usage figures from your previous supplier but not to worry if you can’t, we’ll use the national averages. If you’ve moved in to an house we supply, we might also use previous usage data for your new home to help suggest a suitable starting figure. Either way this initial Direct Debit amount isn’t fixed, even if your price per unit won’t increase on your current plan. Once you’re on supply with us and we’re receiving regular meter readings, we’ll then calculate your payment amount using your projected usage. More info on this here and in the video below.

My contract is ‘fixed’, so why has my Direct Debit amount changed?

The rate you pay per unit of energy you use (in kWh) is fixed when you sign-up to one of our fixed plans. We’ll confirm this unit price in your contract communications. As you’ll still be charged for each kWh you use, your payment amount will be calculated based on the amount of energy you’ve used.

We regularly check your direct debit amount against your usage costs. If your usage is higher than we expected when you joined us, we’ll let you know and increase it to make sure your account doesn’t fall behind. Equally if you’re using less energy than expected you may be offered the chance to reduce your monthly payments. The best way to check the recommended Direct Debit amount is by logging in to your online account or OVO app (download for Android or iOS):
 

How can I make sure my usage costs are accurate?

We calculate your charges and Direct Debit amount based on the meter readings we receive. We recommend submitting traditional meter readings monthly or considering a smart meter upgrade to ensure the amount we’ve billed you is based on the energy you’ve actually used.  If we don’t receive either manually or smart meter readings we’ll estimate your usage for this month. This can always be corrected by submitting meter readings at a later point so it’s worth checking the readings are up-to-date if you’re concerned that your Direct Debit amount isn’t correct.

Is there any support available if I’m struggling to pay for my energy?

There is help available if you’re struggling to pay your energy bills – both from us here at OVO Energy and from government schemes and charities as well.  There are many ways we can help – such as setting up a payment plan for you, which spreads the cost of your energy to make it more manageable. If you want to find out about payment plans, you can request one online here – we’ll take you through what you need to do, and ask you for some details. Our dedicated team is also specially trained to support you. They can make sure you’re receiving any financial assistance from the government that you’re eligible for, and take you through payment support schemes that are available. 

You can find out more about these schemes and where to seek free, independent advice right here.