New Price Cap Means Higher Bills
As winter approaches, households in the UK are bracing themselves for an increase in energy bills. The energy regulator Ofgem has confirmed a new price cap that will come into effect on January 1. This means that typical bills are set to rise by £94 for 29 million households in the new year.
Help is Available
But don't worry, there is help available for those struggling to keep up with their energy bills. Many energy grants and schemes are already open to households across the UK. In this article, we will round up the schemes available from various energy suppliers so you can find the assistance you need.
British Gas Energy Trust
The British Gas Energy Trust offers grants to hard-up households, regardless of whether they are British Gas customers or not. Successful applicants can receive a grant worth up to £1,500 to help with their energy bills. To be eligible, you must meet certain criteria, including living in England, Scotland, or Wales, having an outstanding debt on your energy account, and receiving help from a money advice agency. Apply on the British Gas Energy Trust website.
ScottishPower Hardship Fund
If you are a ScottishPower customer and struggling to pay your bills, you may be eligible for the ScottishPower Hardship Fund. This fund can help you clear or reduce arrears on your ScottishPower energy account. Eligibility criteria include receiving benefits such as Income Support, Job Seekers Allowance, Pension Credit, or Employment and Support Allowance. Apply on the ScottishPower website or call their customer service team.
E.ON Next Energy Fund
The E.ON Next Energy Fund is available for those experiencing financial hardship. It offers two options – one for help with paying gas and electricity bills through grants, and another for replacing broken household appliances. To apply, you need to show that you have made regular payments towards your energy bill over a three-month period. Apply online and provide necessary information such as proof of income and a recent meter reading.
Ovo Energy Customer Support Package
Ovo Energy customers who are struggling with rising energy prices can access a £50 million customer support package. Direct debit customers have access to an online payment support tool, while other customers can create a bespoke payment plan. Ovo has also increased its emergency credit for prepayment customers. Apply online or via the app and provide details about your income and medical needs.
Shell Energy Financial Support
Shell Energy has a £20 million fund to provide financial support to its customers. If you are struggling with energy bills, contact Shell Energy to discuss your situation and find the best way to help. Support options include clearing your debt, offering a free boiler repair, and changing how you pay your bill. Contact Shell Energy's customer services to get more information and apply.
Other Help Available
In addition to the assistance from energy suppliers, there are other schemes and payments available to help with energy bills:
Winter Fuel Payment
Pensioners eligible for the winter fuel payment will receive an additional top-up from the government this year. The payment is made automatically to households with someone born before a certain date. Check if you are eligible on the government's website.
Household Support Fund
The Household Support Fund has been allocated to councils in England to provide support to low-income households. The type of support and how to apply vary depending on your location. Contact your local council to find out what you can get.
Cold Weather Payment
Hard-up households can receive cold weather payments to help cover the cost of higher energy bills during cold snaps. Eligibility is based on certain benefits, and payments are made automatically without the need to apply.
Warm Home Discount
Millions of households in England, Wales, and Scotland can get £150 deducted from their energy bills through the warm home discount. Eligibility is based on receiving certain benefits, and the discount is applied automatically for eligible households.
Demand Flexibility Service
The National Grid's "Demand Flexibility Service" offers households with smart meters the opportunity to be paid for using less electricity during certain hours. Each energy provider has its own eligibility criteria, so check with your supplier to see if you can participate.
Remember, it's important to reach out to your energy provider and explore all the available options for assistance with your energy bills. Don't hesitate to ask for help when you need it.
