New guidance has been issued to help households in Cornwall reduce their energy costs ahead of an expected rise in fuel poverty this year.

The government’s latest fuel poverty report published in 2023 revealed an estimated 13.1 per cent of households in the South West are in fuel poverty – defined as a property with an energy efficiency rating of Band D to G with its disposable income below the poverty line.

The data for 2022 showed that across England as a whole, 3.26-million households (13.4 per cent) were classed as ‘fuel poor’. The report states the figure for 2023 is expected to increase further to 3.53-million (14.4 per cent) as households battle rising energy costs and inflation.

In response OFTEC, a registration body for off-gas grid heating technicians, has published new advice on how vulnerable households can reduce their fuel costs by making full use of the energy payment and saving schemes available. These include:

Winter Fuel Payment

• Most people born before September 25, 1957 are entitled to the Winter Fuel Payment to help with heating costs. This is a tax-free payment of between £250 and £600 paid to you between November and December. Most people automatically receive the Winter Fuel Payment if they are eligible.

Cold Weather Payment

• If you receive Pension Credit, or certain other benefits, you may able to claim the Cold Weather Payment. This is a payment of £25 for each seven day period of very cold weather between November 1, 2023 and March 31, 2024.

Warm Home Discount

·         You may be entitled to a Warm Home Discount on your electricity bill if you receive Pension Credit or if you are on a low income. This is a one-off discount of £150 applied directly to your electricity bill between October 2023 and March 2024.

Energy Companies Obligation (ECO) Scheme

• The ECO scheme helps households living in fuel poverty make energy efficiency upgrades to their home. Large energy suppliers are obliged to promote measures that improve the ability of low income households to heat their homes and reduce their energy usage. This includes installing insulation or upgrading a heating system.

Malcolm Farrow, from OFTEC, commented: “Whilst it’s an exciting time of year for many households as we head in the holiday season, sadly we know that the impact of the current cost of living crisis means many will struggle to heat their homes this Christmas.

“The latest fuel poverty report is deeply worrying and it’s shocking that so little progress has been made in tackling this issue in recent years. That’s why, this year more than ever, it’s crucial households are aware of the support available to help them keep warm and well.”