The Government has announced an 'Energy Price Guarantee' meaning a typical household will now pay around £2,500 a year on their energy bills.
Bills will be higher this winter than they have been in previous years. Remember if you use more – you will pay more. Check out the calculator on MoneySavingExpert for a clearer idea on what you’ll pay based on your general use.
Under the Government's Energy Bills Support Scheme, all households will receive a £400 discount on their energy bills this winter. Stay scam aware – this is an automatic payment and there is no need to apply for this grant. You will not be asked for your bank details at any point.
For households that are not entitled to the above discount, there are two new schemes available. These are not automatic payments and you will need to apply for this funding on the government’s website.
- Households that are not on the mains gas grid and use alternative fuels, such as heating oil to heat their homes can apply for a £200 payment towards their bills through the government’s Alternative Fuels Payment scheme.
- Homes that do not have a contract with a domestic energy supplier, including many care home residents and those living in park homes, can apply for a £400 payment for support with their bills through the government’s Energy Bill Support Scheme Alternative Funding scheme.
There are also other ways you could get extra support or reduce your energy bills:
Speak to your energy provider
If you’re struggling to pay your energy bills, contact your supplier as soon as possible. They may be able to help by making sure you’re on the cheapest tariff. Many energy suppliers also have hardship funds to help their customers who are in debt, and some will loan you special equipment to help you find the heat loss hotspots in your home so you can make quick fixes to reduce your bill.
Energy saving for your home
You could save money on your bills by making your home more energy efficient. Depending on your situation, you may find the following helpful: