Find schemes, grants and benefits to help with home energy

This guide will help you find energy grants and schemes that can save energy and reduce your bills. 

Support during coronavirus (COVID-19)

Energy suppliers won’t disconnect your gas or electric if you miss a payment right now. Ask for ‘emergency credit’ if you use a prepay meter if you can’t top up. Our rules mean suppliers must offer payment plans you can afford.  

Call your supplier if you are worried. They have agreed emergency measures with the government during the pandemic. Most have also signed up to fresh commitments drawn up with Ofgem and the industry trade body Energy UK to support you this winter.

Let's Talk has a benefits eligibility checker. It includes benefits advice if you’re affected by coronavirus.

Help if you can't afford your bills

  1. Home energy check

    Use the Simple Energy Advice website to explore ways to save on energy such as through:

    • home insulation
    • boiler upgrades
    • using more green energy, like solar power.

    Use their Energy Efficiency Calculator for personalised energy saving advice for your building and in your area. 

    The Energy Savings Trust also offer Community Home Energy Checks in England and Wales.

    Then look at home energy grants that may be able to pay for improvements. 

  2. Government schemes and benefits

    Many government schemes support free or subsidised energy-saving measures. These aim to help vulnerable people and encourage energy efficiency in our homes. Some schemes are provided directly through your supplier. 

    Ask about:

    See if you can get paid to generate your own renewable power and heat through the:

    Check if you qualify for the government’s:

    • Winter Fuel Payment – a £100 to £300 fuel payment for people born on or before 5 October 1954. 
    • Cold Weather Payment – a £25 payment for every 7 days of very cold weather between November and March. 
    • Warm Home Discount – a £140 discount for some people getting Pension Credit or some people in low-income households.

  3. Grants and services from energy suppliers

    Many energy companies offer schemes or grants to help with home heating and energy costs. Some are open to anyone – you don’t need to be a customer.

    Contact your supplier to find out what they offer.

    Citizens Advice lists grants some larger suppliers offer. 

    Ask about being put on your supplier’s Priority Services Register. This is a free energy support service if you are vulnerable. 

  4. Grants from charities

    Let's Talk has information on grants some charities offer and how to apply.  

    Turn2Us has grants search and adviser locator tools.

Tips to avoid wasting energy

  1. Use a timer on your central heating system. Set the heating and hot water to come on only when required.
  2. If you have a hot water tank, set the cylinder thermostat to 60oC (140oF).
  3. Close your curtains at dusk to stop heat from escaping through the windows. Check for draughts too.
  4. Always turn off the light when you leave a room.
  5. Use energy-saving light bulbs.
  6. Don’t leave appliances on standby or laptops and mobile phones on charge unnecessarily.
  7. When washing up, washing or drying by machine, try to fully load the appliance. One full load uses less energy than two half loads.
  8. Try to only boil the water you need.
  9. Turn taps off properly. In a single week, a dripping hot tap can waste enough hot water to fill half a bath.
  10. Dry your clothes outside during nice weather.

Further help

Contact Citizens Advice if you aren’t sure about your options and need more support. If you are in a  someone at their Extra Help Unit could take on your case. 

  • Call 0808 223 1133 or use their online webchat.
  • For textphone, dial 18001 followed by the helpline number.

In Scotland, Advice Direct Scotland can help: