North-east residents reliant on alternative fuel sources encouraged to check for £200 discount
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Locals who rely on off-grid energy have been urged to check that they have received a £200 government payment.
Advice Direct Scotland said those who use alternative and unregulated fuel sources should check their electricity bill to ensure they have received the Alternative Fuel Payment.
This includes people who heat their homes using tanked or bottled gas, liquid petroleum gas, oil, or solid fuels like coal, wood and peat.
Anyone who is eligible and has not received the payment automatically should apply now through a dedicated online portal that has been set up by the UK Government.
The Alternative Fuel Payment is in addition to the £400 Energy Bills Support Scheme.
Advice Direct Scotland, which runs national energy advice service energyadvice.scot, said anyone requiring further information or advice should contact advisers at www.energyadvice.scot or by calling 0808 196 8660, Monday-Friday between 9am-5pm.
The charity can offer help to those who are struggling with their energy bills and other money-related issues like debt, and can direct consumers to additional sources of support.
Hazel Knowles, energy project team lead for Advice Direct Scotland, said: “The cost of energy has increased considerably for everyone, but those who rely on off-grid and unregulated fuels face additional challenges.
“People in rural and remote areas often use electricity and an unregulated fuel to heat their homes.
“The £200 Alternative Fuel Payment provides vital support to those reliant on these sources of heating, and it is important to ensure you have received this if you are eligible.
“Those who have not received the payment automatically through their electricity supplier can make an application through the government’s online portal.
“Our specialist advisers at energyadvice.scot can assist you if you would like more information on this payment and can direct you to additional sources of support that are available to help those struggling to afford the cost of alternative fuels.”
Scottish energy consumers who have not received the Alternative Fuel Payment can apply through the dedicated portal at https://www.gov.uk/apply-alternative-fuel-bill-support-if-not-automatic
They will need to give=
An email address or phone number (if they have one)
Bank account details.
Proof that they’ve spent £200 on alternative fuels to heat their home since September 2022 (for example, a delivery note or receipt)
