The Utility Regulator today is publishing its final decision paper on Energy Theft Codes of Practice. This follows the publication of two consultation papers in July 2016 and February 2017.
Energy theft can have serious safety consequences and the value of the energy stolen is paid for by other domestic consumers within their bills, increasing the costs for all energy consumers. Energy theft is a criminal offence and may result in prosecution and a criminal record for consumers involved in this illegal activity.
The Energy Theft Code of Practice requires all regulated energy companies to establish and follow best practice procedures to increase protection for consumers.
Supplier and network operator licences will be modified to include a condition to comply with the Energy Theft Code of Practice. To ensure compliance with the licence condition, suppliers and distribution network operators in gas and electricity are required to establish and implement detailed industry procedures to prevent, detect, investigate and manage the outcome of the investigation into energy theft.