Numerous households find themselves grappling with a frustrating scenario: overpayments on their annual energy bills awaiting reimbursement for months. The grievance platform, Vašestížnosti.cz, managed by the organization dTest, is buzzing with complaints about the practices of energy company Elgas, accused of withholding over ten thousand crowns in some instances.

In response to this predicament, Jan Hamrník, spokesperson for the Energy Regulatory Office, suggests a proactive approach. He recommends initiating a written request to the supplier for the prompt refund of the overpayment. “If they don’t respond, we can deduct the debt from the deposits based on the so-called offsetting act. We notify the supplier that we will not pay the deposit because we offset the debt or part of the debt represented by the overpayment against it,” explained Hamrník to Právo.

While this approach can address the issue partially, the complete recovery of overpayments often necessitates legal recourse. Hamrník highlights that seeking the entire overpayment through execution by a bailiff or court requires an execution title, typically a decision recognizing a receivable.

Customers facing substantial unpaid overpayments have additional options. Beyond the recovery process, such situations constitute a breach of the supplier’s contract, enabling the customer to terminate it. However, for the withdrawal to be effective, a contract with a new supplier must be in place. The complexities of such scenarios underscore that the supplier’s obligations persist even after a customer switches providers, emphasizing the ongoing need for clarity and accountability in the energy sector. As consumers navigate these challenges, regulatory bodies play a crucial role in ensuring fair practices and timely resolutions.

Article by Prague Forum