Millions of households are set to receive the Warm Home Discount of £150 annually throughout the next decade to address the rising cost of living. Energy Secretary Ed Miliband has confirmed the extension of this support program in light of escalating wholesale energy prices. Eligible households will benefit from the £150 rebate on their energy bills each winter until the year 2030/31.
Last year, the government expanded the Warm Home Discount scheme, adding 2.7 million families and increasing the total number of eligible households to approximately six million in England and Wales. Families receiving qualifying means-tested benefits should automatically receive the discount if their energy supplier serves more than 1,000 customers.
Additionally, starting from April, the average household bill will be reduced by £150 by discontinuing the Energy Company Obligation (Eco) scheme. Miliband emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing the affordability crisis and ensuring ongoing support for eligible families through the Warm Home Discount scheme.
The average annual energy bill for households in England, Wales, and Scotland on a standard variable tariff reached £1,758 this winter. Energy UK’s deputy director, Ned Hammond, welcomed the extension of the Warm Home Discount, highlighting the crucial assistance it provides to millions of customers. Efforts are underway to enhance the scheme by targeting support more effectively to those in need.
National Energy Action’s head of policy and public affairs, Matt Copeland, expressed satisfaction with the five-year continuation of the Warm Home Discount, emphasizing its importance for low-income households. He stressed the need for sustained support for energy advice and measures to reach individuals outside the benefits system.
