Struggling households could receive up to £1,700 in energy support from British Gas, regardless of whether they are customers. The British Gas Energy Trust has reopened the Individual and Families Fund for households with energy debt, offering assistance to pre-payment and credit customers.
To qualify, individuals must have energy debts ranging from £50 to £1,700 for pre-payment customers or £250 to £1,700 for credit customers. Additionally, the household income must be below £18,723, or they must reside with a disabled person receiving disability benefits, a Carers Allowance recipient, or be in a household with three or more children.
Applicants should consult a free money advice service like Citizens Advice before applying if they meet the eligibility criteria. Those who have been declined assistance by their energy supplier or have received a grant from British Gas Energy Trust in the past two years are not eligible for the fund.
Jessica Taplin, the British Gas Energy Trust boss, expressed satisfaction in reopening the fund to aid households facing financial challenges due to high energy costs. As energy bills rise, with the Ofgem price cap now at £1,755 for typical dual fuel households, the fund aims to provide essential support to ensure warmth and safety for families.
The Ofgem price cap, effective until December 31, applies to standard variable rate tariffs and regulates the charges for gas and electricity units as well as standing charges. While there is no overall cap on energy costs, bills are calculated based on usage levels. Ofgem estimates typical annual costs based on average electricity and gas consumption.
It is important for consumers to be aware of the price cap changes and understand how they impact their energy expenses and overall household budgeting.