SADLY it comes as no shock that Powergen has recently finally remembered to bill 20,000 consumers.

After all, the firm, in its own words, has termed its billing service "appalling" and has told Energywatch it will resolve this by the end of the year. In the meantime, there are some basic tips to help consumers avoid a bill blunder by any energy firm:

Don't be intimidated by any threats or think they must be right. More than 60 per cent of complaints to Energywatch are about inaccurate, unclear or late bills.

Ensure that your bill is based on an actual meter reading.

Remember, if an accurate "catch-up" bill causes you financial difficulties, you can ask for time to pay your bill off. For example, if the company hasn't sent you a bill for 12 months then ask to pay the bill off over the next 12 months.

Finally, you can always get in touch with Energywatch for free help and advice on 08450 060708 or www.energywatch.org.uk

Karl Brookes,

Energywatch,

Bridgewater House,

Manchester.

Updated: 11:49 Friday, May 19, 2006