The National Housing Federation is calling for a fuel rebate for consumers on pre-pay energy meters.
Consumers who have missed out on some of the most competitive energy deals should be offered a fuel rebate from their supplier, the National Housing Federation (NHF) has insisted.
The organisation's call follows Ofgem's claim that energy customers on pre-payment meters are paying more for their gas and electricity than those paying by direct debit because they are unable to take advantage of the best offers.
According to the NHF, consumers penalised in this way - of which it claims there are around five million - should be given rebates of up to £70 each to make up for unfair pricing differences. It has written to Ofgem outlining its proposals.
David Orr, chief executive of the Housing Federation, said: "Ofgem has effectively found five of the energy companies guilty of overcharging some of the poorest in society by £193 million per year. Surely this means that those affected are now owed a rebate?"
He urged Ofgem to "show some leadership" and to make sure consumers who have been overcharged by their energy provider are properly compensated.
Energy providers have been given until December to voluntarily lower their prices for pre-payment meter customers. If they fail to do so, Ofgem could use its regulator powers to force compliance with regulations.
Meanwhile, Gordon Brown has urged energy providers to pass on recent falls in the cost of oil to their consumers. Oil is currently trading at around $78 a barrel.
