An Overview of the Latest Energy Bill Support
In a bid to alleviate the financial strain felt by households across England, Scotland, and Wales that do not rely on the main gas supply for their heating, the UK government has announced a significant increase in energy bill support. Families using alternative heating fuels, such as biomass boilers, heating oil, or LPG, can now apply for an additional £200 of support, which is in addition to the £400 they already receive from their energy supplier for electricity.
The Background of the Energy Bill Support Increase
It is worth noting that approximately 5% of households in the UK rely on oil for their heating, which amounts to about 1.5 million households. Additionally, 200,000 homes use LPG. However, the cost of these alternative fuels has risen dramatically in recent times, from 58p per litre in 2021 to 94p per litre now, with prices hitting highs of £1.59 per litre last year.
The Application Scheme for Energy Bill Support
The government launched the Alternative Fuels Payment (AFP) scheme in February 2023. However, instead of receiving an automatic payment, households will need to apply for the funding. As part of the application process, applicants must provide evidence of alternative fuel payments from September 2022. The scheme has now been extended for three months to June 2022, as many households purchase in bulk ahead of winter price hikes in October.
Eligibility Criteria for Energy Bill Support
Households that use alternative fuels for heating can apply for energy bill support if their primary residence falls under one of the following categories:
- Residential park home
- Boat on a permanent residential mooring
- Permanent Gypsy and Traveller site
- Social or private rented accommodation that has a business energy connection or a communal electricity supply
- Off the mains electricity or gas grid
- Business property (e.g., farm or flat above a shop)
The Application Process for Energy Bill Support
To apply for energy bill support, households must provide the following details:
- An email address or phone number (if available)
- Bank account information
- Proof that they have spent at least £200 on alternative fuels to heat their homes since June 2022 (e.g., a delivery note or receipt)
Government Statement on Energy Bill Support
According to Grant Shapps, Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, the UK government has already paid half of a typical household energy bill. However, they also want to ensure that the support reaches those who need it. He added that the government has stepped in to ensure that households using alternative fuels, such as heating oil, LPG, and biomass, can submit receipts for fuel purchases as far back as June 2022, recognizing that many households will have bought ahead of winter.
Conclusion
The UK government’s increase in energy bill support is a welcome relief for households using alternative heating fuels, who have been hit hard by rising fuel costs. By providing an additional £200 worth of support, the government is helping to alleviate the financial burden on these households. If you believe that you are eligible for energy bill support, it is advisable to apply for the Alternative Fuels Payment scheme as soon as possible and take advantage of the extended application period until June 2022. By providing the necessary evidence and details, households can receive the support they need to manage their energy bills more effectively.
This move by the government also highlights the importance of investing in alternative, sustainable energy sources that are more affordable and efficient in the long run. With more households turning to these alternative fuels, it is crucial to ensure that they receive the necessary support and assistance to make the switch.
In conclusion, the UK government’s increase in energy bill support is a positive step towards helping households using alternative heating fuels to manage their energy bills more effectively. By providing an additional £200 worth of support and extending the application period, the government is demonstrating its commitment to supporting those in need. If you are eligible for the scheme, it is essential to apply for the Alternative Fuels Payment and take advantage of this vital support.
