Ofgem considers subsidy to level energy costs for prepayment and direct debit customers

Citizens Advice estimated that households on prepayment meters would pay £258 more than those on direct debits this winter. Photograph: John Birdsall/Alamy

Ofgem is considering closing the gap between the cost of energy bills for customers on prepayment meters and those on direct debits – but has defended suppliers who have forced people on to the meters.

Jonathan Brearley, the chief executive of Ofgem, told MPs the energy regulator was examining whether a subsidy could be introduced to create a level playing field.