What Does Martin Lewis Think of OVO Energy?

Martin Lewis is well-known in the UK for helping people save money. He created a popular website called MoneySavingExpert. Millions of people trust him to explain complicated financial topics clearly. Because so many people listen to him, energy companies pay attention when Martin Lewis praises or criticises them.

Who are OVO Energy?

OVO Energy started in 2009 in Bristol. It began as a small company trying to offer better deals than bigger energy firms. In January 2020, OVO became much larger when it bought SSE’s household energy business. It is now the third-largest energy company in Britain, serving around four million customers.

OVO promotes itself as an environmentally friendly company. It also has a special £50 million fund to help customers who find it difficult to pay their bills. But, like many big companies, OVO has faced problems. Customers have sometimes complained about mistakes on their bills or poor customer service, leading OVO to receive fines from Ofgem, the energy regulator.

Martin Lewis on OVO’s tariffs – Be careful

In March 2023, OVO introduced a new “fixed-price” energy tariff. Martin Lewis said this was good because it meant customers had more choice. However, he warned people not to rush into fixed deals just because they look cheaper now. He explained that these deals only make sense if they cost at least 15% less than the government’s price cap (the maximum amount suppliers can charge).

This advice means that fixed deals give you certainty but not always savings. If energy prices fall later, you could end up paying more. So, Martin Lewis advises people to carefully check if a fixed deal really saves them money before signing up.

Direct debit and refunds – Getting your money back

Martin Lewis often reminds people to check their energy account balances regularly, especially each spring. This is because companies like OVO sometimes keep extra money (credit) from customers without returning it automatically.

OVO allows customers to request a refund if their account has over £5 in credit and they have provided a meter reading. Martin Lewis suggests following these steps:

1. Read your meter and give OVO the numbers.
2. Check your balance online or on the app.
3. Request your refund from customer service.
4. If OVO doesn’t respond or refuses, make a formal complaint. If after eight weeks nothing changes, you can contact the Energy Ombudsman, who will help for free.

Standing charges – “a £338-a-year poll tax”

A standing charge is a daily fee customers pay regardless of how much energy they use. Martin Lewis thinks this is unfair because even people who use little energy still pay around £338 a year. In December 2024, he compared this charge to a “poll tax” because everyone pays the same amount, regardless of their usage.

Ofgem might soon let companies offer tariffs without these charges. This would help people who use very little energy, but could mean higher costs per unit of energy for others. Martin Lewis recommends watching carefully for these new options from OVO.

Customer-service problems highlighted by Martin Lewis

Customer service is important to Martin Lewis. In January 2022, OVO’s SSE brand sent an email advising customers to do things like star jumps or cuddle their pets instead of turning up the heating. Many people, including Martin Lewis, found this advice unhelpful and insensitive. OVO quickly apologised for this mistake.

Martin Lewis also points out that OVO customers sometimes complain about delayed refunds or billing mistakes. He advises customers facing these issues to clearly document their problems and escalate complaints if needed.

Practical advice if you’re with or thinking of joining OVO

Martin Lewis recommends some simple steps:

• Check energy prices carefully against predicted price caps before switching.
• Consider if exit fees might limit your flexibility.
• Read your meter every month to avoid incorrect bills.
• Set reminders to check your account balance in May and November.
• Look out for zero-standing-charge tariffs if you use little energy.
• Remember your rights to fair treatment. If OVO breaks these rules, contact the Energy Ombudsman.

Martin Lewis’s opinion on OVO Energy

Martin Lewis advises checking OVO Energy’s prices, customer service, and terms. He encourages people to trust data over marketing.

FAQs about OVO Energy and Martin Lewis

Who is Martin Lewis?

Martin Lewis is a financial expert who helps people save money. He started MoneySavingExpert.com and is often seen on TV.

Why is OVO Energy popular?

OVO Energy is popular because it promotes green energy and offers competitive prices. It also provides financial help for customers who struggle to pay their bills.

What is a fixed tariff?

A fixed tariff means your energy price won’t change for a certain time. It can be good if prices go up, but might cost you more if prices fall.

How do I get a refund from OVO Energy?

If you have over £5 in credit, you can request a refund by giving OVO an updated meter reading and contacting their customer service.

What is a standing charge?

A standing charge is a fixed daily fee you pay to your energy company, regardless of how much energy you use.