Security Deposit
What is the security deposit and why is it required?
When you sign a contract, the Regulatory Authority for Energy, Networks and Environment (ARERA) requires the operator to request a security deposit as a guarantee of contractual obligations. The amount paid covers, at least in part, the risk of non-payment and protects not only the Operator but all customers, since amounts left unpaid by one customer ultimately affect everyone else.
How is the deposit amount calculated?
The amount is calculated on the basis of your historical consumption and/or your customer type (domestic, commercial, etc.) and cannot exceed three average monthly bills. For shared building (condominium) supplies, i.e. with 2 or more housing units connected to the same meter, the deposit is equal to 60% of the sum of the deposits calculated for the individual units.
When must the deposit be paid?
Half is paid when the contract is signed; the other half is split into two instalments on the first two available bills.
Can I be exempted from paying the security deposit?
- Yes. If you receive social tariff benefits, you cannot be asked to pay a deposit.
- If you are a domestic customer and use no more than 500 cubic metres per year, you can set up direct debit from your bank or post office account, in which case you are not required to pay a security deposit.
When will my security deposit be refunded?
If your contract is terminated, the deposit will be refunded on your final bill. If you set up direct debit from your bank or post office account, it will be refunded on the first available bill. The deposit is always refunded together with the statutory interest accrued during the deposit period.
Who set these rules?
The Italian Regulatory Authority for Electricity, Gas and Water (AEEGSI) introduced these rules from 1 June 2014 through Resolutions 86/2013 and 543/2013. Since then, the security deposit has applied to all contracts, both new and existing, in accordance with the provisions of ARERA, which replaced AEEGSI.