Introduction of an Energy Theft Unit (ETU) under the REC
Summary
Energy theft is a significant issue, costing consumers between £457 million and £760 million annually (based on Autumn 2024 retail prices). Energy theft also poses safety risks, particularly due to tampered meters, which have caused fatal incidents. Whilst existing measures under the REC, such as the Energy Theft Tip-Off Service (ETTOS) and Theft Detection Incentive Scheme (TDIS) seek to provide information on likely instances of energy theft and the incentives to investigate them, there are currently insufficient enforcement mechanisms and coordination with law enforcement agencies. In particular, there are challenges due to limited police engagement and inconsistent prosecutions, contributing to a low deterrent.
Latest update and next planned activity
Date of latest update
Latest Update
This Change Proposal has been implemented as part of the REC Release on 27 June 2025.
Impacts Overview
Priority and rationale
Standard
Priority last updated on 29 May 2026
Solution development
Problem Statement
Whilst existing measures under the REC, such as the Energy Theft Tip-Off Service (ETTOS) and Theft Detection Incentive Scheme (TDIS) seek to provide information on likely instances of Energy Theft and the incentives to investigate them, there are currently insufficient enforcement mechanisms and coordination with law enforcement agencies. Energy theft is an illegal activity where criminal charges are being given if perpetrators are being prosecuted. However, these are rarely happening due to limited police engagement and inconsistent prosecutions. This means offenders may re-offend given the low deterrent.
No documents available.
Change Plan
Change Report (Proposal Plan) at Change Panel
Introduction of an Energy Theft Unit (ETU) under the REC > Change Plan
Start:
29 Jan 2025Due:
04 Feb 2025Completion:
04 Feb 2025Presentation to TIG
Completed
Start:
13 Jan 2025Due:
29 Jan 2025Completion:
29 Jan 2025Change Report (Consultation) to Change Panel
Introduction of an Energy Theft Unit (ETU) under the REC > Change Plan
Start:
04 Feb 2025Due:
18 Mar 2025Completion:
18 Mar 2025Change Report (Final) for Change Panel
In Progress
Start:
18 Mar 2025Due:
06 May 2025Completion:
06 May 2025Original submission
Change details
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13 Jan 2025
Change details
Introduction of an Energy Theft Unit (ETU) under the REC
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Impacts
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Priority & timing
Yes
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