Following his challenge earlier in the year to the Energy Minister, Rt Hon Gregory Barker MP, to do more to help combat fuel poverty amongst the poorest members of society, Henry Smith MP has today warmly welcomed Government measures put in place for this winter.

Henry said:

“I welcome the various different measures that the Government has instigated over recent months to better support those who struggle with their energy bills.  The Warm Homes Discount has helped support more than one million low income pensioners receive £130 off their energy bills this winter.  More broadly, low income and vulnerable customers could be eligible for £25 per week to help keep warm during these cold months through Cold Weather Payments – this represents a permanent increase from just £8.50 per week. 

“The Government’s Green Deal innovative new scheme will let people pay for some or all of the cost of energy saving property improvements, like insulation, over time through savings on energy bills.  Starting from next month, the Green Deal will help millions of Britons better insulate their homes with extra help available for 230,000 low income households through the ECO Affordable Warmth and Carbon Saving Communities Obligation which requires energy companies to invest in home thermal efficiency improvements worth a total of some £540 million per year.”

Local residents are encouraged to call the Government’s Energy Saving Advice Service for advice on how to reduce bills and save energy by making homes more efficient.  Further information can be found at www.gov.uk/energyhelp or by calling 0300 123 1234.