I run a community support charity which has spent two years raising £150,000 for a climate action hub. The idea is to run events, workshops and performances on the site, which includes an amphitheatre and field kitchen.
Over a year on, planned events and activities are badly affected because we are still waiting for the installation of an electricity meter.
We signed a contract with Bulb in November 2021. A week later, it went into administration.
We were assured that the installation would still go ahead, but after 20 emails, approximately 30 telephone calls, and two failed installation appointments, we finally lost faith and terminated our contract with Bulb in November 2022. We attempted to sign up with British Gas, but it was discovered that Bulb had not de-registered itself as our supplier. This apparently prevents us signing up with any supplier. All Bulb needs to do is send a form to the National Grid.
We’re tearing our hair out.
GP, Bristol
It’s ironic that a climate action hub has to rely on the National Grid, but you say a reliable electricity supply is vital for lighting, sound equipment and cooking. Just as you terminated your contract, Bulb was being acquired by Octopus, which may explain, if not excuse, the neglect.
Octopus, which has since been migrating Bulb accounts, admitted that you suffered “dreadful confusion and delay” under Bulb, and blames inherited supply and administration issues for its own slow progress.
As soon as I interfered it managed, within a week, to migrate your account and install a meter.
You’ve decided to remain with Octopus and it has added credit to the account to apologise for your dismal experience.
Good luck with your endeavours to help turn Bristol carbon neutral.
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