British Gas has agreed to pay a £20 million penalty as part of settling an investigation into forced prepayment meter installations during the Russian gas crisis. The incident occurred between 2018 and 2021 when energy bills surged due to geopolitical tensions, leading many households struggling with their payments.
According to Ofgem’s findings, British Gas was found guilty of installing these meters without proper consent from homeowners who were unable or unwilling to keep up with their electricity costs. This investigation is described as one of the most complex in Ofgem's history due to its extensive scope and impact on thousands of customers.
As part of this settlement, British Gas will also compensate affected customers for a total package worth £112 million. This includes not only the penalty payment but additional support measures that aim to ease financial burdens placed upon households during what was already an economically challenging period.
The energy supplier has acknowledged its responsibility and is committed to making amends by writing off up to £70 million in outstanding debts for vulnerable customers. This move aims to provide immediate relief while addressing the long-term consequences of past actions that violated customer rights and trust.
Going forward, British Gas plans to implement stricter protocols ensuring future installations are transparent and respectful of consumer choice. The company will also engage with regulatory bodies to ensure compliance moving ahead into a more regulated energy market environment.
This article was produced by AVALW News on Friday, May 15, 2026 based on reporting from 6 verified news sources. Our editorial process cross-references facts from multiple independent outlets to deliver accurate, comprehensive coverage. All original sources are linked below.