The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) has issued an update reminding millions of UK households to check their eligibility for a £150 discount on energy bills this winter. Eligible households must be named on their electricity bill by August 23 to receive the rebate automatically.
Who Is Eligible?
Every household where the billpayer is on means-tested benefits qualifies for the rebate, following the scheme's expansion last year. This change meant nearly a million additional families with children received extra support last winter. Around six million households will get the rebate this winter, including about 250,000 automatically for the first time in Scotland.
In England and Wales, households receiving Housing Benefit, Income-related Employment and Support Allowance, Pension Credit, or Universal Credit are eligible. The same cohort applied last winter.
How the Discount Works
The Warm Home Discount is a one-off £150 discount on electricity bills, applied directly by the supplier. The money is not paid to the customer. Eligible customers on pre-payment meters must ensure their account is registered in their name.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham recently announced the removal of VAT from domestic electricity bills from October 1, saving £45 off the yearly Ofgem price cap. This was one of his first decisions in office.
Government Urges Action
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. Almost a million more families with children received the £150 Warm Home Discount last winter, after we expanded the scheme."
She urged people to check eligibility and spread the word: "If you know someone who might benefit, please start spreading the word and encourage them to check they are named on their energy bill."
Deadline and Future of the Scheme
The government is calling on eligible households to ensure they are named on their electricity bill, with suppliers using records as of Sunday, August 23. Someone may not be named on their bill if they recently moved house.
Earlier this year, the government confirmed the Warm Home Discount will continue through to 2030/31, with millions eligible for the rest of the decade. Last year’s Budget took an average £150 off energy bills, factored into future bills. The Warm Homes Plan aims to reduce energy use, lower bills, and lift households out of fuel poverty.
