Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment her Department has made of the potential impact of the 1 January 2024 Ofgem price cap increase on the number of households that require additional support for fuel bills.

The Government frequently assesses the merits of energy cost support policies and the impacts various policy ideas would have on the most vulnerable households.

Energy prices have significantly fallen in the past year alone and the Q1 2024 price cap of £1,928 has more than halved compared to the previous year when the Q1 2023 price cap peaked at £4,279.

The Government also recognises the challenges posed by cost-of-living pressures, including the impact of energy bills, and is already providing extensive financial support to households. This includes a package of support to assist households and individuals with rising costs of living that will total over £104 billion, or £3,700 per household on average, over 2022-2025. Millions of vulnerable households will receive up to £900 in further Cost of Living Payments.

These payments are in addition to established financial support which is available for low income and vulnerable households this winter through the Winter Fuel Payment worth between £250 - £600 and the Cold Weather Payment providing £25 during very cold weather. The Government continues to provide support through the Warm Home Discount, which provides low-income and vulnerable households with an annual £150 rebate off their energy bill every winter.