DWP’s £147 Energy Bonus Just Dropped: In a significant effort to combat fuel poverty and provide meaningful support during a time of escalating utility bills, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has launched a £147 energy bill credit for qualifying households in 2025. The move aims to support low-income and vulnerable individuals, particularly those who heat their homes using costly biomass heating systems. This initiative is being delivered in partnership with Act on Energy and Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council, targeting tenants of Solihull Community Housing.
The bonus is part of the UK Government’s Household Support Fund, a wider program intended to offer emergency financial relief to those struggling to meet basic household costs. While the credit doesn’t come as cash-in-hand, the £147 is applied directly to your energy provider account, reducing the amount owed and immediately lowering monthly outgoings.
DWP’s £147 Energy Bonus Just Dropped
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Support Amount | £147 energy bill credit (not direct cash) |
| Administered By | Act on Energy in partnership with Solihull Council |
| Eligibility | Biomass-heated, low-income households with vulnerable occupants |
| Income Threshold | Annual gross income of £31,000 or less |
| Savings Limit | £0 (or up to £10,000 if a pensioner is in the home) |
| Application Deadline | March 31, 2025, or while funding lasts |
| Application Website | www.actonenergy.org.uk |
As we navigate a challenging financial landscape, energy affordability remains a critical concern. The DWP’s £147 credit helps soften the blow of winter energy costs, offering peace of mind to those who need it most. It’s more than just financial aid — it’s an acknowledgment of the unique challenges faced by low-income, vulnerable, and eco-conscious households.
If you or someone you know meets the criteria, don’t wait. The application process is simple, the documentation is minimal, and the potential savings are significant.
Understanding the £147 Energy Credit: Who It’s For and Why It Matters
This support package is not a government freebie for everyone — it’s carefully aimed at those most impacted by heating costs and least able to manage them. The scheme is geographically focused on the Solihull area, particularly residents who rely on biomass heating systems such as wood pellet or log-fueled boilers, which are expensive to operate compared to standard gas or electric heating.
Biomass systems often incur additional maintenance costs, fuel storage challenges, and unpredictable pricing. Vulnerable households reliant on these systems have been disproportionately affected by energy market volatility.
This grant helps offset those burdens by providing direct relief via utility accounts. There’s no cash transfer involved, which ensures that the benefit goes straight toward reducing home energy expenses.
Eligibility Criteria in Full
To receive the £147 energy bill credit in 2025, applicants must fulfill the following detailed requirements:
Residency Requirements
- Must reside in Solihull.
- Must be a tenant of Solihull Community Housing.
- Homeowners or private renters are excluded from this round of funding.
Heating Source
- Home must be heated using a biomass system, which may include:
- Wood pellets
- Wood logs
- Wood chips
These energy sources, while eco-friendly, carry higher operational costs.
Financial Thresholds
- Household gross annual income must be £31,000 or less.
- Savings must be £0, unless a pensioner is present in the household — in which case savings up to £10,000 are permitted.
Vulnerability Indicators
At least one household member must qualify as vulnerable, which includes:
- Having a long-term physical or mental health condition
- Receiving disability benefits such as PIP (Personal Independence Payment) or DLA (Disability Living Allowance)
- Being in serious financial hardship, including rent arrears, payday loans, or fuel debt
- Receiving state benefits or means-tested support such as Universal Credit or ESA
Application Process: A DWP’s £147 Energy Bonus Just Dropped Walkthrough
1. Access the Online Portal
- Go to the Act on Energy site
- Locate the “Solihull Biomass Energy Grant” application section
2. Fill in the Application Form
- Provide personal, financial, and household heating details
- Self-certify income and vulnerability status
3. Submit Supporting Documentation
- Email documents to [email protected]
- Documents can include benefit confirmation letters, medical certificates, and energy bills
4. Await Verification
- Solihull Council and Act on Energy will review your application and documents
- You may be contacted for further clarification or supporting evidence
5. Energy Account Credited
- If successful, £147 will be applied directly to your energy account, typically within several weeks
Reminder: This grant is subject to availability. There is no guarantee of approval. Applicants who’ve received a similar bonus in the last 6 months will only be considered again if eligible.
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Deadline and Availability of Funds
Applications are being accepted until March 31, 2025. However, the fund may close early if all resources are allocated before the deadline. That’s why early application is highly encouraged. Late or incomplete applications will not be processed.
FAQs On DWP’s £147 Energy Bonus Just Dropped
Q1: Can I apply if I’m not on Universal Credit or other welfare benefits?
A: Yes. You don’t need to be on benefits to qualify. The grant also helps those in low-income jobs or on tight budgets without state support.
Q2: Can I apply more than once?
A: If you received funding more than six months ago, you may be eligible again.
Q3: Will I receive money directly into my bank account?
A: No. This is not a cash payout. The credit is applied directly to your energy provider account.
Q4: Is this offer only valid in Solihull?
A: Yes. This particular program is for Solihull Community Housing tenants only. Other regions should contact their local council.
Q5: What if I miss the deadline?
A: If you miss the deadline or the fund closes early, you’ll need to wait for a new funding cycle, if one becomes available.
Why the Program Targets Biomass Heating
Biomass heating is considered sustainable, but it’s not always affordable. These systems are often used in rural or off-grid properties and have seen less public support compared to traditional energy options. The operational and maintenance expenses, combined with rising fuel costs, put financial pressure on those who can least afford it.
This targeted support helps level the playing field and ensure that eco-conscious households don’t face unfair disadvantages.
Additional Government Help You Might Qualify For
In addition to this energy bonus, you may be eligible for:
- Warm Home Discount Scheme
- Cold Weather Payments
- Winter Fuel Payments (for pensioners)
- WaterSure and social tariffs for water bills
- Energy debt assistance from Citizens Advice
Visit gov.uk or contact your local Citizens Advice Bureau to check your eligibility for these additional schemes.
