Energy giant Centrica will reportedly post record annual profits of around £3 billion.

The owner of British Gas is set to announce its annual financial results later this week, saying that it has made the highest adjusted operating profits in its history.

A few days ago, a Times investigation revealed that debt collectors broke into vulnerable customers’ homes to force-fit prepayment meters.

According to analysts, Centrica’s adjusted operating profits would be more than three times higher than a year earlier.

Experts at the wealth management group Investec predict that profits at the British Gas energy supply division will account for nearly £104 million, or 3.5% of the total.

Simon Francis, Co-Ordinator of the End Fuel Poverty Coalition, said: “It’s obscene to think that the profits of this firm are built on the backs of older people, young families and the disabled suffering in cold, damp homes this winter.

“While they may claim the retail arm is less profitable than other parts of the business, the profits on energy production and on trading are what are driving the energy bills crisis in the country.”

ELN has approached Centrica for comment.