Energy prices have been rising worldwide for a variety of reasons. A cold winter in Europe last year put pressures on supplies, so there is less gas stored globally than normal. There’s also been increased demand from Asia, and around the world as economic activity increased after lockdowns.
There is help for vulnerable households
The Government have announced a new £500 million scheme for vulnerable households this winter. More details will be forthcoming in due course, but you can read the announcement here.
You might be eligible for other help to pay your bills:
Winter Fuel Payment If you were born on or before 26th September 1955 you could get a payment of £100-£300 towards the cost of your energy bills. There are full details of eligibility and how to apply here.
Cold Weather Payment You might be able to get a Cold Weather Payment if you get support for mortgage interest, or certain benefits including income support, job-seekers allowance or pension benefit. You get a payment if the weather is on or below freezing for 7 consecutive days. Cold Weather Payments can start from 1st November, and you can get £25 per each cold week.
https://www.gov.uk/cold-weather-payment
Warm Home Discount Scheme The warm home discount scheme could get £140 off your electricity bill for winter 2021 to 2022. The scheme opens on 18 October 2021.
The money is not paid to you - it’s a one-off discount on your electricity bill between October and March. You might be eligible if you are on pension credit, or on a low income. More details here.
Other sources of help
The British Gas Energy Trust help people in fuel poverty. You do not have to be a British Gas customer to qualify. More here.
Eon also provide support for existing customers: https://www.eonenergy.com/more-for-your-home/energy-fund.html as do
EDF https://www.edfenergy.com/for-home/help-centre/faq/can-i-get-grant-help-me-pay-my-energy
Octopus energy advice https://octopus.energy/blog/struggling-to-pay/
