Since the scheme’s launch in 2018, 647 projects across the UK have received grants funded by payments from energy companies that breached regulatory standards. These include cases of poor billing, complaint handling and abuse of wholesale markets.
The funding has supported wide-ranging initiatives including over £55 million for fuel voucher schemes, energy advice for 700,000 households, small energy efficiency improvements for 72,000 homes and support for inclusive low-carbon heating technologies.
More than 16,000 homes have been referred for larger energy upgrades such as insulation and heating.
Cathryn Scott, Director for Market Oversight and Enforcement at Ofgem, said: “Protecting customers and ensuring they’re treated fairly is at the heart of Ofgem’s mission. That’s why we make sure that when energy companies break the rules, they make amends by contributing to projects that make our energy system fairer and support those in need.”
One newly funded initiative is the Citizens Advice Energyworks project in Brighton and Hove, which received nearly £528,000 to support residents in fuel poverty.
The scheme includes home visits, landlord engagement and training for frontline workers to identify fuel poverty.
Jo Muntus, Energyworks Manager, said: “We’re really proud to offer this service to Brighton and Hove residents – supporting clients to keep warm, save on their bills and manage their energy better.”
Graham Ayling from the Energy Redress Scheme added: “This funding has enabled voluntary sector organisations to deliver vital support to those most at risk from high energy prices, while helping build a net zero society that leaves no one behind.”
