A major political confrontation has erupted between the Scottish Government and the UK's energy regulator, Ofgem, over who is responsible for protecting Ukrainian refugees from soaring energy bills and mounting debt.
The dispute centres on the 'Homes for Ukraine' scheme, with Scottish Ministers demanding urgent action to prevent vulnerable families from being saddled with unaffordable costs. They have accused Ofgem of a shocking failure to provide clear guidance or enforce protective measures for sponsors and their guests.
'Passing the Buck' on Protection
In a strongly-worded critique, Scottish Ministers claim Ofgem is "passing the buck" and leaving households in the lurch. The core of the issue lies in the complex energy tariff arrangements within homes hosting refugees. Without clear, mandated protections from the regulator, families face a postcode lottery of support, with some sponsors facing impossible financial decisions.
The Looming Threat of Debt and Eviction
The lack of a unified regulatory framework creates a real risk of displaced Ukrainians falling into severe energy debt. Critics warn this could lead to the ultimate failure of the sponsorship scheme—eviction. If hosting families can no longer afford the increased energy usage, refugees may be left without a safe haven.
The Scottish Government is now applying intense pressure on Ofgem to step up its duties, enforce consumer protection laws, and provide definitive, UK-wide advice to all energy suppliers. They argue that a voluntary approach is insufficient and that the regulator's inaction is undermining a vital humanitarian effort.
