If you cannot afford to pay your energy bills
If you’re having problems paying your energy bills, help may be available.
Contact your supplier
Talk to your energy supplier as soon as possible. They’ll work with you to agree a payment plan based on what you can afford. They can also give you advice on how to use less energy.
They might also have funds or grants you can apply for.
The following energy suppliers have grants available for their customers:
- British Gas Energy Support Fund
- Scottish Power Hardship Fund
- Ovo Energy Fund
- E.ON Next Energy Fund
- EDF Energy Customer Support Fund
- Octopus ‘Octo Assist Fund’
If your supplier is not listed, you should contact them directly to check what support they can give you.
Check you’re paying the right amount for your energy bills
If you think you’re paying too much for energy, contact the Money Talk Team. They can make sure you're not paying too much for gas or electricity.
The Money Talk Team service offers free money and debt advice.
The service can help you understand what you’re entitled to and ways to save money.
It can help you find out:
- what benefits and other financial support you may be entitled to
- how you can manage debt
- ways to save money on your bills
You can get more information on the Money Talk Team website or by calling 0800 028 1456. You can also visit your local Citizens Advice Scotland bureau for in person support.
Contact Advice Direct Scotland
Advice Direct Scotland can help if you:
- have issues with your supplier
- want to complain to your energy supplier
- are having problems with your energy bills
Financial support
You could get financial help from:
- the government
- charities
What you can get depends on your personal circumstances.
Find out what financial help you could get.
If you're not connected to a gas supply
If the only source of energy for your home are fuels like oil or coal, you may be able to get help from the Fuel Bank Heat Fund. Contact one of the Fuel Bank Foundation’s registered partners to apply.
Help to make your home warmer
Get practical advice to help make your home warmer.
Check if you can get funding for energy saving improvements.
More help with energy costs
You could also get help and advice from these organisations:
- Age Scotland has guidance on energy and how to reduce your bills
- Citizens Advice Scotland can help you agree a payment plan with your supplier or help you pay off your debts through your benefits
- Home Energy Scotland may help you save energy and reduce your bills
- Fuel Bank Foundation can help you with money for your pre-payment meter
- Net Zero Scotland gives advice on how to save energy, reduce waste, travel smarter and eat greener
You can find more information on help during the cost of living crisis. This includes support with household bills, benefits and income and more.