UK householders can get their energy bill arrears cleared if they are in debt from having the heating on more during the current cold spell. They may also be able to get “free electricity” at certain times as well as a £150 payment applied to their account.
EDF is among the energy firms offering assistance to people this winter. It says it has boosted the support on offer by £29 million.
The company said: “We offer some customers in need a ‘fresh start’ by clearing debt, alongside payment-matching top-ups for prepayment meter customers. Customers eligible for these schemes will be contacted by EDF.” The scheme not only provides grants to clear off arrears but can also replace old or broken cookers, fridges and washing machines with up-to-date, energy-efficient models.
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To apply, you’ll need your electricity and/or gas account number(s), along with supporting documents that relate to your application. This could be evidence of any benefits and/or tax credits received by any adults in your household, or proof of illnesses diagnosed by a doctor, medical professional or health worker. These must be dated within the past six months. You can apply on the EDF Customer Support Fund page here.
In addition, EDF says it is “supercharging Sundays” with free electricity for customers who sign up to its Sunday Saver challenge as a reward for using less power during peak times. Everyone who signs up to the challenge will be given a target to move some of their electricity usage away from peak hours, which are usually 4pm to 7pm, such as by putting on the washing machine or dishwasher at other times instead. The more you make this change during the week, the more free electricity you can earn. For instance, if you shift 40 per cent of your peak usage to off-peak times, you can earn up to 16 free hours to use the next Sunday.
You can opt into this initiative within your energy account and can also ask for a reminder if you miss the deadline and want to be alerted when the next sign-up period opens. To take part, you will need a smart meter that sends readings every 30 minutes.
EDF is also among the energy firms to offer the £150 Warm Home Discount. This is an annual rebate applied to your electricity account.
People who are on the guarantee credit element of Pension Credit qualify for the discount automatically. Others may be eligible if they are on Universal Credit, Housing Benefit, income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA), Income Support, the Savings Credit part of Pension Credit, Working Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit, as long as they live in a home that has a ‘high energy cost score’ based on its age, type and floor area. Your electricity supplier will apply the discount to your bill by March 31, 2025.
If you are not an EDF customer, check with your own supplier to see what help they are offering with energy bills this winter. Most firms have schemes in place to assist those who are struggling or vulnerable.
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