The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) is preparing to introduce support measures to help households with rising energy bills amid increasing heating costs as temperatures begin to drop across the UK.
With the Ofgem energy price cap set to increase from 1 October, concerns have been raised in Parliament, particularly regarding households with medical conditions that require higher indoor temperatures. In response to questions from James McMurdock, Independent MP for South Basildon and East Thurrock, DESNZ has provided updated information on the planned support.
Polly Billington, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at DESNZ, emphasised the government’s awareness of the financial strain faced by many families. She highlighted that the government has already taken steps such as removing VAT from electricity bills and reducing energy costs by £150 since April. Additionally, the Warm Home Discount scheme, which helped 5.7 million households last winter, has been extended.
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Billington outlined the government’s £15 billion Warm Homes Plan, described as the largest home-upgrade programme in British history, aiming to improve energy efficiency in homes, reduce costs and lift approximately one million families out of fuel poverty by 2030. Part of this initiative involves exploring ways for health professionals to refer individuals who require warmer homes for medical reasons.
One challenge identified in delivering targeted support is the availability of accurate data. DESNZ is collaborating with other government departments on the National Data Library household income ‘kickstarter’ project to better integrate public sector data. This effort is intended to enhance access to support programmes and ensure assistance reaches those most in need.
The Warm Home Discount Scheme commencing in October will provide a one-off £150 reduction on electricity bills. According to guidance from MoneySavingExpert, those on standard credit or smart prepayment meters who were named on their electricity account or bill by 23 August 2026 should receive this credit automatically between October 2026 and March 2027.
Electricity suppliers will apply the discount directly to bills and, for some, it may be possible to apply it to gas bills if the supplier offers both services. In Scotland, individuals may need to apply directly.
Ofgem has announced a 4% rise to the energy price cap for the period 1 October to 31 December 2026, increasing the cap by £60 annually from £1,663 to £1,723 for a typical household paying by direct debit. Approximately 22 million households on default tariffs are protected by this cap, while about 11 million (35%) on fixed tariffs will not be affected by the rise.
Eligibility for the Warm Home Discount requires that the energy supplier be part of the scheme on 23 August 2026, and that the account holder or their partner receives certain means-tested benefits such as Housing Benefit, Universal Credit, Pension Credit, or income-related Employment and Support Allowance.
Further details on eligibility and the Warm Home Discount are available from energy suppliers and official government sources.