Energy Bill Support UK 2026: Help for Low-Income Households

Many people search for 'energy social tariff' — but this scheme no longer exists in the UK. What has replaced it is a range of different support schemes. Here's exactly what is available in 2026 and how to claim each one. Updated April 2026

Important: Energy Social Tariffs No Longer Exist

Energy social tariffs — which offered reduced unit rates directly to eligible low-income customers — were phased out in 2011 when the Warm Home Discount scheme was introduced. Broadband and water companies still offer social tariffs (cheaper monthly plans for benefits claimants), but energy companies do not have an equivalent in 2026. An Energy (Social Tariff) Bill exists in Parliament and organisations including Scope, Age UK and Citizens Advice have called for reintroduction, but no scheme is currently operational. If you were searching for an 'energy social tariff', the closest current equivalent is the Warm Home Discount.

What Help IS Available — 2026

Warm Home Discount — Full Eligibility Guide

The Warm Home Discount scheme runs each winter. For 2025/26: £150 off your electricity bill. You must have been a customer of a participating supplier on 24 August 2025 with your name on the electricity bill. Qualifying scenarios: Core Group 1 (automatic): You or your partner received the Guarantee element of Pension Credit. You receive a letter automatically — no need to apply. Core Group 2 (may need to call): You receive a qualifying low-income benefit AND live in a high energy cost property (calculated by Ofgem from property data). You may receive an automatic letter or may need to call 0800 030 9322. The scheme closes in late February/March each year — do not delay.

Priority Services Register — What You Get

To register for PSR: contact your electricity supplier; contact your gas supplier; and contact your local network operator (the company that owns the cables/pipes — separate from your supplier). Search 'priority services register' and your area on ofgem.gov.uk for your network operator's details.

ECO4 — Free Insulation for Eligible Households

The Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) requires large energy suppliers to fund free home insulation measures for eligible households. This is one of the most valuable energy support schemes available — loft insulation saves £150-£300/year; cavity wall insulation saves £200-£400/year; these savings continue for the lifetime of the improvement. Eligibility: you typically need to receive certain means-tested benefits (UC, tax credits, Housing Benefit etc.) or have a property rated EPC D or below, or live on a low income. Apply via your energy supplier — most participate in ECO4. Installation is free. The scheme runs until 2026 and beyond. Search 'ECO4 scheme' on GOV.UK for full eligibility details.

This article is for informational purposes only. Energy prices change frequently — always compare on Uswitch or MoneySavingExpert for your current best deal. Figures verified April 2026 from Ofgem, Which?, Citizens Advice and Trustpilot.