Jargon Buster
KwH
Stands for Kilowatt hours and is the measure used to calculate
your electricity and gas consumption.
MPAN
Each property in the UK has a unique MPAN number (meter point
administration number). This is sometimes also called
the supply number and can be found on your electricity
bill. It should start with the letter S.
MPRN
This is the unique number used to identify that your property
has mains gas supply. The MPRN (Meter Point Reference
Number) can be found on your gas bill and is usually between 6 and
10 numerical digits. If you cannot find your MPRN
number, or have moved into a new property and do not have a bill,
then call Transco on 0870 608 1524 who will be able to provide you
with this information.
Paperless billing
Feature of online tariffs (see tariffs explained)
Service Rating
The service ratings of an energy supplier relate traditionally
to the number of customer complaints received each year by Consumer
Direct about a particular supplier. This information is regularly
updated by “Consumer Focus” - the energy industry watchdog. To
access a full copy of these complaint reports go to www.consumerdirect.gov.uk
Smart Meters
This is a new type of meter which allows consumers to view the
actual cost of their energy consumption through a display attached
to their meter. Such meters can also eliminate problems
associated with estimated bills. These are gradually
being rolled out through the UK.
Standing charge
A standing charge is a fixed amount that you pay for every day
you are connected to a gas or an electricity network. You
also have to pay for the gas and electricity you actually use.
Winter Fuel payments
These are made by the government every winter to help people
aged 60 or over to pay their fuel bills. Those who
qualify should receive £200 per household, while households with
someone aged 80 or over could receive a further £100.00