Energy supplier EDF has launched a £1 million heatwave relief scheme that could provide up to £100 of free support to vulnerable households as soaring temperatures raise health fears. Up to 10,000 eligible households could benefit from the initiative, which includes practical cooling equipment, electricity bill support, and advice.
Heatwave Relief Packs: What's Included?
The Heatwave Relief Packs will provide a combination of energy-efficient desk or pedestal fans, handheld or neck fans, thermal blackout curtains, reflective window film, cooling towels, and reusable water bottles. Eligible customers may also receive up to £20 in electricity credit or vouchers to help cover the cost of running cooling appliances, along with advice on keeping homes cool and staying safe in hot weather.
According to the UK Health Security Agency, there were 1,311 heat-associated deaths in England during the summer of 2024, with older people accounting for the highest number of deaths. Since 2020, more than 10,000 heat-related deaths have been recorded across UK heat episodes.
Shift in Energy Supplier Focus
The scheme marks a significant shift for energy suppliers, which have traditionally focused customer support on keeping households warm during winter rather than helping them stay cool in summer. 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."
Souto added: "We're increasingly seeing a summer version of the 'heating or eating' dilemma. Some vulnerable customers are reluctant to use fans or other cooling appliances because they're worried about the cost. Nobody should have to choose between protecting their health and managing their household budget."
Distribution and Partnerships
EDF said customers will be identified through its own support teams, referrals from charities and community organisations, and direct contact with customers who may need extra help. The packs will be distributed with the help of social impact organisation Charis and London's SHINE energy advice service.
Jessica Taplin, chief executive of Charis, said recent heat-health alerts issued by the UK Health Security Agency had underlined the growing danger posed by extreme temperatures. She added: "By combining financial assistance, practical cooling equipment and trusted advice, this programme recognises that vulnerability doesn't disappear when winter ends."
As well as providing equipment, EDF's guidance encourages customers to keep curtains and blinds closed on sun-facing windows during the hottest part of the day, open windows when temperatures fall in the evening, stay hydrated, and check on elderly friends, relatives, and neighbours during periods of extreme heat.
Broader Context
The announcement comes as households continue to face pressure from energy costs. Consumer champion Martin Lewis has recently urged millions of households to review their tariffs rather than automatically accepting higher energy costs, saying many customers can avoid paying more by switching to a competitive fixed deal.
EDF said the Heatwave Relief Packs form part of a wider £1 million programme designed to support vulnerable customers throughout the year as hotter summers become more common.
