British Gas, Octopus, E.ON, EDF & OVO Customers: Claim Up to £200 Before It’s Too Late!

London, UK – Millions of energy customers in the UK are being urged to act quickly to secure financial support and avoid rising energy bills. Households supplied by British Gas, Octopus Energy, E.ON, EDF, and OVO Energy may be eligible to claim up to £200 in assistance through government and supplier-backed schemes.

The warning comes as Ofgem, the UK energy regulator, is set to increase the energy price cap by 6% from April 1, 2025. This change will raise the average annual bill for households paying by Direct Debit to £1,849, an increase of approximately £111 per year. Experts recommend that customers take immediate action to explore financial aid options and consider fixed-rate tariffs to mitigate the impact of this rise.

Why Energy Bills Are Increasing?

The energy price cap, which limits the maximum amount suppliers can charge for default tariffs, is reviewed quarterly by Ofgem. The latest increase is attributed to fluctuating wholesale energy prices and ongoing economic pressures. The cap aims to protect consumers from excessive charges, but rising costs continue to pose financial challenges for many households.

For more information on the energy price cap, visit Ofgem’s official website.

How Customers Can Claim Up to £200 in Support?

To help offset rising costs, energy suppliers and government schemes offer various financial assistance programs. Eligible customers should act quickly to take advantage of these opportunities before deadlines approach.

1. Warm Home Discount Scheme (£150 Discount)

The Warm Home Discount Scheme provides a one-off £150 discount on electricity bills for low-income households. Customers who receive certain benefits, such as Pension Credit or Universal Credit, may qualify for this scheme.

• Who is eligible? Households on a low income or receiving qualifying benefits.
• How to apply? Eligibility is usually determined automatically, but customers should check with their energy supplier.
• More details: UK Government Warm Home Discount

2. Supplier-Specific Grants & Support (£50 – £200 Assistance)

Energy suppliers offer their own financial aid programs for struggling customers. Here’s what’s available:

• British Gas Energy Trust: Grants of up to £2,000 are available to help customers clear energy debt. Open to both British Gas customers and non-customers.
  • Apply at: British Gas Energy Trust
• Octopus Energy’s Octo Assist Fund: Offers discretionary bill credits and other support to customers in financial distress.
  • Check eligibility: Octopus Energy Support
• E.ON Next Energy Fund: Provides cash grants and debt relief for customers struggling with bills.
  • Apply at: E.ON Next Fund
• EDF Energy Customer Support Fund: Assists in clearing debt and replacing essential appliances.
  • More information: EDF Energy Help
• OVO Energy Financial Assistance: Offers help through the Warm Home Discount and additional hardship grants.
  • Apply via: OVO Energy Help

Why Switching to a Fixed-Rate Tariff Could Help?

As energy prices fluctuate, fixed-rate tariffs offer price stability, potentially shielding customers from future increases. With the upcoming price cap rise, customers on standard variable tariffs should consider switching to a fixed-rate plan if it offers better rates.

To compare energy tariffs, visit Ofgem’s accredited price comparison tool.

Prepayment Meter Customers: Don’t Forget to Redeem Vouchers

Households using traditional prepayment meters may receive vouchers to help with energy costs. These vouchers, often distributed under the Energy Bill Support Scheme, must be redeemed promptly at a PayPoint or Post Office.

For guidance on claiming prepayment meter vouchers, visit Citizens Advice.

Act Now Before Support Runs Out

With the energy price cap increase approaching, customers are advised to:

1. Check eligibility for financial assistance – Contact your energy supplier to inquire about available discounts and grants.
2. Compare fixed-rate tariffs – A fixed-rate deal might offer better long-term savings compared to standard variable tariffs.
3. Redeem any eligible vouchers – Prepayment meter customers should ensure they use support vouchers before expiry.
4. Seek independent advice – Charities such as Citizens Advice and StepChange provide free guidance on managing energy bills.

For more energy-saving tips and financial support resources, visit the UK Government’s Help for Households page.

Final Thoughts

As energy costs continue to impact UK households, taking proactive steps now can make a significant difference in managing bills. By claiming available support, switching to cost-effective tariffs, and staying informed about government aid programs, customers can reduce financial strain and stay ahead of rising costs.

Energy suppliers and charities encourage all eligible households to explore their options immediately before these benefits expire. Visit your supplier’s website or use official government portals to check your eligibility today.