Energy websites crashed today as customers rushed to submit meter readings to avoid a price rise from tomorrow.
The problems — which appeared to be industry-wide — followed advice to householders to tell suppliers how much energy they had used before Ofgem’s price cap increase takes effect.
The aim is to prevent firms from estimating usage and charging for energy used before tomorrow at the higher rate.
• Guide: How to save money on gas and electricity at home in the cost of living squeeze
• Read more: Beat the energy bill price rise with a last-minute meter reading
A message on the British Gas website told customers it was facing some technical issues which it was “trying to resolve as quickly as possible”.
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It said customers could still submit readings but warned it could take “a little time to update your account with the meter reading you provided today”.
EDF Energy’s website also reported problems. The main page was functioning, but when customers clicked through to the “My Account” page they were unable to log in.
A message appeared on the page reading: “Sorry . . . We’re carrying out some essential maintenance work on our site. We’ll be up and running again soon.”
E.On also seemed to be facing problems with customers logging in to their accounts, while customers of So Energy reported that they were unable to log in or get through on customer helplines.
According to Downdetector, an online platform that provides information about websites’ status, E.ON, Scottish Power, British Gas and SSE had gone down.
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Households will see the largest rise in the cost of energy in living memory from tomorrow, when bills increase by 54 per cent — or almost £700 — to just under £2,000 a year.
Gillian Cooper, head of energy policy at Citizens Advice, said: “We’d recommend sending meter readings to your supplier ahead of the price cap rise on April 1. This means your energy company will have an accurate picture of your usage before higher rates come in.
“If you’re struggling to pay your bill, speak to your energy provider as they have to help you. Citizens Advice can also provide you with free, independent support.”
