No, if you have a traditional electricity prepayment meter with ScottishPower, your supply generally will not run out overnight during specific 'friendly credit' hours, even if your balance drops below zero.
Understanding ScottishPower's Friendly Credit Hours
ScottishPower implements a "friendly credit" system designed to prevent self-disconnection during unsociable hours, holidays, and weekends for customers using traditional electricity prepayment meters. This means that if your credit runs low or out during these designated times, your electricity supply will continue until the friendly credit period ends.
Here's a breakdown of when friendly credit applies for traditional electricity:
| Day(s) | Friendly Credit Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday - Saturday | 6:00 PM to 11:00 AM |
| Sunday | All Day |
| Bank Holidays | All Day |
This system ensures that you won't be left without power overnight, on Sundays, or on public holidays, even if you can't top up immediately.
What Happens After Friendly Credit Hours?
Once the friendly credit period concludes (e.g., after 11:00 AM on a weekday), any debt accumulated during this time will be recovered from your next top-up. If you do not top up sufficiently, your supply may then disconnect until you add more credit.
Important Considerations for Your Electricity Supply
- Prepayment Meters: This friendly credit system specifically applies to traditional electricity prepayment meters. If you have a credit meter (where you receive a bill), your electricity won't "run out" due to low credit; instead, you'll be billed for your usage. Disconnection for non-payment on credit meters follows a different, more formal process.
- Smart Meters: While the reference specifies "traditional electricity," smart prepayment meters may have similar or slightly different friendly credit arrangements. It's always best to check your specific meter's functionality or contact ScottishPower directly if you have a smart meter.
- Managing Your Credit: To avoid any disruption, it's always advisable to keep your prepayment meter topped up.
- Monitor your balance regularly.
- Top up before it gets too low, especially heading into weekends or bank holidays.
- Be aware of your energy usage, particularly for high-consumption appliances.
- Getting Help: If you are struggling to pay your energy bills, ScottishPower offers support and advice. You can find more information on their official website, such as their affordability support page.
By understanding ScottishPower's friendly credit system, you can better manage your electricity supply and avoid unexpected disconnections during unsocial hours.
