An estimated six million households are set to receive £150 off their electricity bills through the Government's Warm Home Discount scheme. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that 24 energy suppliers will participate in the initiative this year.
Automatic Payment and Eligibility
The £150 payment is automatically credited to eligible customers' accounts to help with heating costs during colder months. The DWP urges anyone receiving means-tested benefits to ensure they are named on their electricity bill by August 23 to qualify. This is particularly relevant for those who have recently moved house and may not be listed on the bill.
Eligibility in England and Wales includes households receiving Housing Benefit, Income-related Employment and Support Allowance, Pension Credit, or Universal Credit – the same criteria as last winter.
Government Context and Statements
The reminder follows an announcement by Prime Minister Andy Burnham earlier this month that VAT will be removed from electricity bills starting October 1, expected to save £45 off the yearly Ofgem price cap. This policy was among Burnham's first acts as government leader.
Energy Secretary Miatta Fahnbulleh said: "Families will be worried about their energy bills this winter and our focus is on giving them breathing space, as we continue to work to bring down bills." She added: "Almost a million more families with children received the £150 Warm Home Discount last winter, after we expanded scheme."
She also encouraged: "If you know someone who might benefit, please start spreading the word and encourage them to check they are named on their energy bill."
Full List of Participating Suppliers
The following 24 suppliers will be part of the winter 2026 to 2027 scheme:
- 100Green (formerly Green Energy UK or GEUK)
- Boost
- British Gas
- E – also known as E (Gas and Electricity)
- Ecotricity
- EDF
- EnergyCoop – see Octopus Energy
- E.ON Next
- Fuse Energy
- Good Energy
- Home Energy
- London Power
- Octopus Energy
- Outfox Energy
- OVO
- Sainsbury’s Energy
- Scottish Gas – see British Gas
- ScottishPower
- So Energy
- Square 1 Energy Ltd
- TruEnergy
- Tulo Energy
- Utilita
- Utility Warehouse
Government guidance notes that if your electricity supplier stops trading, you may still be eligible for the discount. Ofgem will appoint a new supplier, and you should check with them regarding eligibility.
