Thousands of people have had their smart meters switched to prepayment energy meters without prior warning.

Renfrewshire North and West MSP Natalie Don has issued a warning around the unwelcome rise in household energy billing practices.

According to research from Citizens Advice Scotland carried out by polling firm YouGov, a number of people are being moved to prepayment energy meters against their will.

The analysis revealed almost 24,000 people had been forced onto electric prepayment meters, with around 12,000 experiencing the same with gas meters.

Energy companies have also been employing a 'back door' method, converting smart meters into pay-as-you-go meters.

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It was discovered that around 18,000 people had their meters changed without their consent for electric usage, and a further 12,000 for gas.

The significant switch was carried out until regulatory body Ofgem called a stop to all forced installations of prepayment meters.

The body took the action in response to certain energy suppliers’ tactics, which involved employing third-party companies to forcibly fit these meters in the homes of vulnerable individuals.

Since these discoveries Ofgem have issued a more strict code for all energy providers that restricts the circumstances under which customers can be forced to switch to a prepayment meter.

The measures include no forced switches in households with children under two, individuals above 75 or anyone with specific medical conditions.

Natalie Don MSP said: "These new figures come just as Ofgem agree to some suppliers restarting the forced installation of prepayment meters on customers.

"I sincerely hope that the new regulations put in place by Ofgem will help to stop vulnerable customers being forced onto prepayment meters, as we know has happened in the past."

The MSP also advised individuals facing issues with their energy supplier to seek help from Renfrewshire Council's Advice Works or the local Renfrewshire Citizen Advice Bureau for guidance and assistance.