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Many will be warmer this winter
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Energy Aid for Poor to Triple
Writes Dan Drage dan.drage@consumerchoices.co.uk
The big six energy suppliers have agreed to triple concessions to their more vulnerable customers, but not until 2010.
According to government reports, energy aid supplied to poorer customers should reach £150 million by the winter of 2010, with the big six additionally agreeing to provide those in fuel poverty with increased social assistance.
A household experiencing fuel poverty spends more than 10% of its income on fuel bills.
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"This extra funding will be siphoned directly from the profits of the big six energy companies"
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Under the deal, British Gas (www.britishgas.co.uk), EDF Energy (www.edfenergy.com), e.on (www.eon-uk.com), npower (www.npower.com), Scottish and Southern (www.scottish-southern.co.uk) and Scottish Power (www.scottishpower.com) will double the amount spent on helping Britain's poorest households to £100 million for next winter, and £125 million for 2009-10.
This extra funding will be siphoned directly from the profits of these suppliers.
Industry Minister John Hutton had the following to say:
‘I do not underestimate the difficulties and anxiety that rising energy prices can cause but I believe that this extra cash, coupled with ensuring we have the most competitive market possible, will help us toward our goal of eradicating fuel poverty in the UK.’
Chris Eagle, Commercial Manager at Credit Choices, welcomes the move with open arms:
‘This is great news for those struggling with bills. Although the financial injection is staggered, it will mean more support for winter’s most vulnerable consumers, namely the elderly and disabled.’
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