Government Schemes
The government has stepped in to help people with their energy bills in various ways, including rebates and awarding grants towards energy efficient repairs on your home
Warm Home Discount
You could get £140* off your electricity bill for winter under the Warm Home Discount Scheme.
The money is not paid to you – it’s a one-off discount on your electricity bill, between October and March.
You may be able to get the discount on your gas bill instead if your supplier provides you with both gas and electricity
There are 2 ways to qualify for the Warm Home Discount scheme:
- you get the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit – known as the ‘core group’
- you’re on a low income and meet your energy supplier’s criteria for the scheme – known as the ‘broader group’
Core Group
You should receive a letter which may ask you to confirm your details between October and December
The discount will then be automatically applied
If you do not get a letter by December and think you’re eligible, please contact the Warm Home Discount hotline at 0800 731 0214
Broader Group
You must apply directly to your supplier every year, with applications typically opening during the summer months.
Please be aware this scheme is “first-come, first-serve” so it is best to contact your supplier sooner rather than later to make sure your application is entered on time.
Each supplier also has its own set of criteria to qualify so contacting them directly is the best way to know if you are eligible.
Fuel Direct / Third Party Deductions
If you are on certain benefits, you can use your benefits to pay off your energy debt through this government scheme. The Department of Work and Pensions would take a set amount from your benefits each week to pay both your debt and ongoing costs so that you would not even have to think about it. To apply, you would need to contact Jobcentre Plus or your pension centre.
You can apply for this method of payment if you are on the following benefits
- Universal Credit
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Income Support
- Pension Credit
Winter Fuel Payments
If you were born on or before 26 September 1955 you could get between £100 and £300 to help you pay your heating bills. This is known as a ‘Winter Fuel Payment’.
You will get your Winter Fuel Payment automatically (you do not need to claim) if you’re eligible and eith
- get the State Pension
- get another social security benefit (not Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction, Child Benefit or Universal Credit)
- Telephone: 0800 731 0160 or visit this website.
Cold Weather Payment
Extra payment if you receive certain benefits – see here.
You would normally receive it if the temperature in your area is 0oC or below on a daily basis for 7 days
You’ll get £25 for each 7 day period of very cold weather between 1 November and 31 March.
