Energy theft: the unknown dangers

Crimestoppers has been working closely with the energy sector since 2016 to raise awareness of the dangers of tampering with electricity and gas meters, also known as energy theft. 

Stealing energy is not only illegal but it poses many dangers to the individual, those around them and the community. 

The unknown dangers of energy theft

Our newest Stay Energy Safe campaign focuses on the dangers of tampering with electric or gas meters and raising awareness of this crime.

Given the recent energy crisis and how much people are struggling with bills, there's an increase in temptation to tamper with meters. However, energy theft can result in electrocution, fires and gas explosions that can lead to property being destroyed, and people injured and even in some cases, killed.

Stay Energy Safe, in partnership with Crimestoppers, aims to raise awareness of energy theft and keep people safe by educating them on the dangers it poses, the signs to spot, and encourage people to report it, 100% anonymously, via the Stay Energy Safe online form or by phone on 0800 023 2777.

The impact of stealing energy

Energy theft is a crime that often goes unnoticed. It's estimated that around 250,000 cases of energy theft go unreported every year, putting us all in danger. Stolen energy adds around £50 a year to the paying customer’s energy bill - but the real cost is the danger it poses to communities. 

• Learn more about the dangers of energy theft and how to spot it.
• Find out more about the risks of gas and electricity theft on stayenergysafe.co.uk, or share your concerns about potential energy theft here.

7 November 2024