Unlocking Savings: 8 Innovative Strategies to Slash Energy Bills During the Big Freeze with Tips on Free Financial Aid and Energy-Saving Devices!

We have commenced the year under the influence of frigid Arctic winds.

This circumstance couldn’t have occurred at a more inopportune time for nearly ten million retirees in the UK, as their Winter Fuel Payments have just been eliminated.

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This also coincides with an increase in energy tariffs for 26 million customers on standard rates.

Tariffs rose by 1.2 percent on January 1, costing households an additional average of £21 per year. This follows a ten percent spike in October, when bills surged by £149.

The UK Health Security Agency has indicated that an amber alert for low temperatures will persist until at least Wednesday.

Senior citizens already faced a challenging winter after Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ Autumn Statement announced that the Winter Fuel Payment — previously accessible to anyone of state-pension age — would now be means-tested, meaning only those receiving specific benefits, including Pension Credit, would retain it.

Sun campaign

The deadline for applying for Pension Credit to secure this year’s payment passed just prior to Christmas.

Age UK’s director Caroline Abrahams remarked: “We encourage older individuals to do everything within their power to stay warm, even if that might entail spending more on heating than they believe is manageable.”

However, many remain unaware that Winter Fuel Payments are merely one source of assistance they could qualify for.

The Sun’s Winter Fuel SOS campaign has already provided retirees with guidance toward additional funds they may be eligible for.

Below, we outline the support that is available . . . 

1. SUBMIT A METER READING

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Ensure you submit your reading this weekend to decrease the likelihood of your estimated bills being excessively high.

This is applicable only if you do not possess a smart meter — or if you do but it is malfunctioning.

2. OBTAIN ENERGY GRANT

Numerous energy companies offer grant programs to assist customers in need. You could receive up to £2,000 per year.

It is not necessary to be a customer of British Gas to apply for assistance through its scheme. Its customer service team can be contacted at 0333 202 9532.

EDF (0333 200 5100), E.ON (0808 501 5200), and Octopus (0808 164 1088) also provide grants to clients.

3. HOME-IMPROVEMENT GRANT

Ensuring your residence is well-insulated is one of the most effective strategies to lower your energy expenditures.

Cavity-wall insulation can reduce your expenses by £240 annually, while adding a jacket to your water tank may save £40, according to the Energy Saving Trust.

Some insulation solutions can be costly, however, if you are on a limited income and your home has a high energy rating,you might qualify for financial aid or complimentary assistance.

If you own a property, submit your application at: gov.uk/apply-great-british-insulation-scheme. If you are a tenant, it’s essential to consult your landlord beforehand.

4. VERIFY YOUR BENEFITS

Ensure you are receiving all the assistance to which you are entitled from the Government.

The primary benefits to verify are . . . 

• The Warm Homes Discount Scheme providing a £150 reduction on energy bills for individuals receiving specific benefits or those with low incomes and high energy demands.
• Winter Fuel Payments, which provide pensioners on Pension Credit or other qualifying benefits between £200 and £300 to assist with energy costs.
• Cold Weather Payments, which offer £25 for each week of sub-zero temperatures to individuals on eligible benefits.

These benefits are generally granted automatically if you claim certain benefits, but it’s advisable to confirm that you aren’t missing out by using the Turn2Us website calculator.

5. FREE CASH TOWARD EXPENSES

You might be eligible for complimentary funds or energy credits from your local council through the Household Support Fund.

This assistance typically targets low-income individuals or the elderly. Some may even qualify for £500 towards their winter expenses.

Check with your local council to see if you can apply. Visit gov.uk/find-local-council.

6. FREE ENERGY-SAVING DEVICE

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Certain energy companies are distributing energy-efficient freebies to assist their clients.

For instance, Octopus is offering electric blankets to those struggling with bills through their Octo Assist fund.

Visit octopus.energy/blog/free-electric-blankets-for-our-most-vulnerable for more information.

7. SWITCH TO A FIXED PLAN

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If you are not enrolled in a fixed tariff, you might be foregoing hundreds of pounds in savings each year.

The least expensive fixed rate currently available is from So Energy, amounting to £1,607 for a duration of 24 months.

Keep in mind that there is an exit fee of up to £150 should you choose to switch again before the contract concludes.

Analysts from Cornwall Insight predict that bills are set to increase again in April.

8. ASSISTANCE FOR AT-RISK HOUSEHOLDS

Numerous at-risk households — including those with elderly or sick individuals or young children — are missing out on additional aid and safeguards by not registering for the Priority Services Register.

Registration will provide advance notifications of power outages, complimentary gas-safety assessments, and additional support if you struggle to cover your bills.

Contact your energy provider to apply for this support.