The regulator has directed people facing difficulties towards free debt advice, financial support schemes and grants that may help reduce or clear energy-related debts. The message comes as charities continue to report concerns about households dealing with pressure from high living costs.
Ofgem Highlights Support Available for Customers in Energy Debt
Ofgem has advised customers who are struggling to pay their energy bills not to ignore growing debts and to contact their supplier or seek independent advice. According to Ofgem, people who have fallen behind with payments can access free debt advice, additional support schemes and grants that may be available to them.
Citizens Advice provides guidance on the types of assistance households can apply for, depending on factors including how they pay for energy, the fuel they use and whether they receive benefits. The organisation lists several forms of help, including fuel vouchers for people with prepayment meters who cannot afford to add credit, emergency assistance and grants from energy suppliers.
Several major energy companies operate hardship funds for eligible customers with energy debt. These include British Gas, EDF, E.ON Next, Octopus, OVO, Scottish Power, Utilita and Utility Warehouse. The funds are designed to provide support to customers who meet the relevant requirements.
Citizens Advice also points to the British Gas Energy Trust, which can offer grants to people regardless of their energy supplier. According to Citizens Advice, applicants must receive debt advice before applying for this support.
The regulator is also reminding households to check whether they qualify for other schemes, including the Warm Home Discount, Cold Weather Payments, Winter Fuel Payment and the Priority Services Register. The latter provides additional assistance for customers considered vulnerable.
Households Advised to Act Early as Energy Bills Remain a Concern
The warning comes as many families continue to experience financial pressure from household bills. Although wholesale gas prices have moved away from the highest levels seen during the energy crisis, charities have warned that energy debt remains at significant levels.
Support organisations say that early action can help customers understand the options available and avoid allowing unpaid bills to increase further. Ofgem has encouraged anyone worried about keeping up with payments to contact their supplier and seek free, independent advice.
According to Citizens Advice, available support can vary between households, meaning customers should check which schemes apply to their own circumstances. The organisation advises people experiencing difficulties with energy costs to explore all available options, including supplier assistance and government-backed schemes.
Energy suppliers may also be able to offer different forms of help for customers facing payment problems. Those whose supplier does not operate a hardship fund are advised to ask what other support routes may be available.
Ofgem’s latest message aims to ensure that customers know help exists before their energy debts become more difficult to manage. The regulator continues to direct households towards suppliers, advice services and support programmes that can provide assistance during periods of financial difficulty.
