How can I save money on fuel bills?

This information applies to Northern Ireland only

There are various ways you can save money on fuel bills.

Use fuel more efficiently

Most households can save a substantial amount on fuel bills by using energy in an efficient way, and can be warmer and healthier as a result. Grants and discount schemes are available to help with fuel efficiency measures. These include the Warm Homes Scheme. Even if you have to meet some of the costs yourself, the savings on fuel bills can quickly repay the initial cost.

If you ask for it, your fuel supplier must provide free information and advice on:

• preventing heat loss from the home
• choosing gas or electricity heating systems and controls
• using a gas or electricity heating system efficiently.

For more information about how to use less energy and cut your fuel bills, go to the Energy Savings Trust website at: www.energysavingtrust.org.uk. You can also do a home energy check at: www.energysavingtrust.org.uk, or phone your local Energy Saving Trust advice centre on 0800 512 012.

Choosing a different payment method

You may be able to reduce your fuel bills by choosing a payment method which offers a discount.

For example, some fuel suppliers offer a discount to customers who pay their bills by direct debit, standing order, a fixed payment budget scheme or a flexible payments scheme.

Getting help towards your fuel bills in winter

If you are aged 60 or over, or live with someone aged 60 or over, you may be able to get a Winter Fuel Payment to help with fuel costs over the winter.

For more information about Winter Fuel Payments, see Benefits for people over sixty.

If you are getting certain benefits, you may be able to get a cold weather payment when the weather reaches a certain temperature.

For more information about cold weather payments, see Help for people on a low income - the Social Fund.

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