Energy supplier EDF has launched a £1 million Heatwave Relief Pack scheme to support up to 10,000 vulnerable households during periods of extreme heat. The initiative provides cooling equipment worth up to £100 per household, electricity bill support, and practical advice to help customers stay safe.
Who qualifies and what is included
Eligible households include older people, disabled individuals, those with long-term health conditions, and households facing financial hardship. The support package may include energy-efficient desk or pedestal fans, handheld or neck fans, thermal blackout curtains, reflective window film, reusable water bottles, cooling towels, up to £20 in electricity credit or vouchers, and advice on staying safe during hot weather.
According to EDF, customers do not need to apply. Instead, eligible households will be identified through customer support teams, referrals from trusted partners and community organisations, and direct engagement.
Context and rationale
Joe Souto, Retail Director at EDF, said: "When temperatures fall sharply in winter, there is widespread recognition that vulnerable households may need extra support to stay safe and warm. We believe the same principle should apply when temperatures become dangerously high." He added that the company is seeing a "summer version of the 'heating or eating' dilemma," with some vulnerable customers reluctant to use fans due to electricity costs.
The UK Health Security Agency reported 1,311 heat-associated deaths in England during summer 2024, with people aged 75 and over experiencing the highest mortality rates. Since 2020, more than 10,000 heat-associated deaths have been recorded across UK heat episodes.
Distribution and advice
Jessica Taplin, chief executive of Charis, which is helping distribute the support packs, said: "For many people, extreme heat is a genuine health emergency. By combining financial assistance, practical cooling equipment and trusted advice, this programme recognises that vulnerability doesn't disappear when winter ends."
The packs also include advice on reducing overheating risk, such as keeping curtains and blinds closed on sun-facing windows during the day, opening windows when temperatures are cooler, staying hydrated, using fans effectively, and checking on older relatives, friends, and neighbours during hot weather.
EDF said the initiative builds on its existing support for vulnerable customers and reflects the need for year-round assistance as climate change increases the frequency and intensity of heatwaves.
