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Energy debt: your rights and how to stop it growing

Energy debt is one of the fastest-growing debt types in the UK. But you have more rights than you might think.

Your key rights

Energy companies **must offer a payment plan** you can afford

They **cannot disconnect your electricity** remotely (smart meter can be switched to prepayment)

Gas can only be disconnected after extensive notice and safety checks

They **must** put you on their cheapest available tariff if you're in debt

They cannot disconnect you during winter if you're elderly or have young children

Steps to take right now

1. Contact your supplier

Call and say: "I'm struggling with my energy costs and I'd like to discuss my options." Ask for the hardship team.

2. Ask for a payment plan

They must offer a plan based on what you can afford. If they propose too much, push back.

3. Apply for their hardship fund

Most major suppliers have dedicated hardship funds:

**British Gas Energy Trust** — grants up to £1,500

**EDF Customer Support Fund** — help with energy costs

**OVO Energy Fund** — grants for OVO customers

**Scottish Power Hardship Fund** — emergency support

**E.ON Next Energy Fund** — financial assistance

4. Check for Warm Home Discount

£150 off your electricity bill. Automatic for some, application needed for others.

5. Get on the Priority Services Register

Free support for vulnerable customers. Includes advance warning of outages and access to additional help.

Reducing your bills going forward

Ask for a smart meter to monitor usage in real time

Switch to a cheaper tariff (you can switch even with up to £500 of debt)

Check insulation grants through the ECO4 scheme

Apply for Council Tax Reduction to free up money for energy

Don't ignore energy debt — contact your supplier today. They're required to help.

Free tools mentioned in this article

Financial Survival Check Hardship Letter Generator Benefits Finder Budget Calculator

Recommended free services

Trusted organisations that can help — all completely free to use.

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StepChange

Free debt advice · 0800 138 1111

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ClearScore

Free credit score & report

🏗️

Loqbox

Build your credit score for free

⚖️

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