Seven energy support schemes are available this winter to help eligible households with energy debt or bills, as a 4% hike to Ofgem's energy price cap took effect from October 1, adding around £60 extra per year to the average bill.
The latest price increase means the average household paying by direct debit for gas and electricity reached £1,723, up £5 per month if this level is sustained over 12 months. More than four million homes that remain on a standard energy tariff are affected by the increase, and forecasts suggest bills could go up even higher from January.
Price cap forecast to rise further
Analysts at Cornwall Insight are predicting the price cap will rise by a further 16% on January 1 to £1,999 per year, up £276 on the level between October and December, marking the biggest rise since January 2023.
The UK Government has stepped in to offer support to households by temporarily removing the 5% VAT from electricity bills until March 31 next year, cutting around £45 per year from bills.
But if you're looking for other ways to save money, there is financial support available from a swathe of energy providers that can help with bills this winter. Major firms like British Gas, Octopus Energy and EDF run energy support schemes and offer grants to help customers experiencing financial difficulties pay off their energy debts.
British Gas and Octopus Energy schemes
British Gas funds an independent charitable trust called the British Gas Energy Trust that helps people with energy debt write off grants. Through the Trust, households across England, Scotland and Wales can apply for an Energy Support Grant which provides up to £1,700 worth of support per household, as well as a small grants scheme which provides emergency energy vouchers and essential white goods.
Octopus Energy offers support through its Octo Assist scheme, a dedicated £40 million support package designed to help those most in need afford their bills. The scheme includes practical help like free electric blankets, standing charge waivers, grants to offset high energy bills and long-term payment plans or payment holidays.
EDF, OVO and ScottishPower support
EDF Energy provides financial help through its Customer Support Fund which offers grants to customers who are struggling with energy debt. The scheme can help with electricity or gas bill debts, and provide essential white goods like a fridge or a cooker.
OVO Energy offers help through its Extra Support scheme which provides targeted financial support and debt relief for customers struggling to pay their bills. The scheme also offers practical help including free energy-saving products like heated throws, smart sockets and home efficiency kits.
ScottishPower offers financial support through its Hardship Fund which is designed to help customers having difficulty paying their bills due to low income or other circumstances. The Fund is designed to help customers get their energy payments under control by clearing or reducing their arrears. Customers in receipt of certain benefits can qualify, or if you have a low household income.
