Support for energy theft

Energy Theft: Guidance & Support

Energy theft is a serious and illegal act that endangers lives and property. This section offers essential information, resources, and support to help you understand the risks, recognise the signs, and take appropriate action.

What is Energy Theft?

Energy theft, also known as meter tampering, occurs when someone interferes with or removes their electricity or gas meter to reduce their energy bills. It is both dangerous and unlawful, and can result in:

• Electrocution

• Fires

• Gas explosions

• Property damage

• Serious injury or death

Energy theft is surprisingly common, with around 150,000 cases investigated and 1,500 individuals prosecuted under the Theft Act 1968, the Criminal Damage Act 1971, the Criminal Law Act 1977 or the Fraud Act 2006 each year.

As a supplier, we are committed to tackling energy theft. We actively detect, investigate, and prevent electricity and gas theft, and report our findings to the relevant authorities.

How to Spot Energy Theft

Energy theft can be difficult to detect. Here are signs to watch for:

On Your Meter

• Numbers running backwards or not moving

• Loose or unusual wiring

• Sparks or burning smells from the meter

In Your Home

• Electric shocks from appliances or water fixtures

• Smell of gas

• Sparks from sockets and switches

In Your Community

• Locked or inaccessible meter cupboards

• Damaged or unusual meters in public buildings

• Tradespeople offering suspicious “savings” on bills

How to report it

Reporting energy theft can help to keep costs down and keep everyone safe. If you suspect that an energy meter has been tampered with, please let us know:

• Contact us – email SEUKL-RevenueAssurance@shell.com

• Contact Crimestoppers UK – call 0800 023 2777

• Online Form: Report Energy Theft Form | Stay Energy Safe

• Website: Report Energy Theft | Stay Energy Safe

Operated by the charity Crimestoppers, this service guarantees complete anonymity. They won’t ask who you are - just what you know.

Reporting energy theft can help to keep costs down and keep everyone safe. If you suspect that an energy meter has been tampered with, please let us know:

• Contact us – email SEUKL-RevenueAssurance@shell.com

• Contact Crimestoppers UK – call 0800 023 2777 or use their online form to report anonymously

The Theft Charter is an industry-wide commitment to supporting customers during the process of investigating and taking action against energy theft. Click this link to learn how we're supporting customers.