Carmichael demands clarity on timings and advice for off-grid energy payments

Orkney and Shetland MP, Alistair Carmichael, has today called for further detail on the rollout of the Alternative Fuel Payments (AFP) scheme giving £200 of energy bill support for off-grid families, including those using heating oil. Speaking in Parliament Mr Carmichael asked the Energy Minister for detail on the numbers of people expected to benefit from the scheme automatically and how those who need to apply for the payment can do so.

The government has now announced that the majority of eligible households will be due to receive the payment automatically from 6 February. The scheme will deliver £200 to households who use alternative fuels such as biomass, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) or heating oil. Most households will not need to take any action to receive the support. A small proportion of households will need to apply for the AFP, for example because they do not have a relationship with an electricity supplier.

Speaking in the House, Mr Carmichael asked:

“For those who are getting support for alternative fuels, what reach does he expect the scheme to have for those that the government has identified as relying on alternative fuels, and how long does he expect that it will take for the remainder to get their money?”

Responding, the Minister for Energy Graham Stuart MP said:

“Those who are on alternative fuels who are in the majority group, I haven’t yet seen where we are at in our data development in terms of a number on that. If I can access that I’ll write to the Rt Hon gentleman.

“Most people will be paid automatically with a credit to their energy bill which will be ready at the beginning of February, it may not appear on their bill until March. [For those who do not have an existing relationship with a supplier] we hope to open the same portal that is being used for [other payment schemes] for the Alternative Fuel Payment, and we hope that will be soon. When I have further and specific data I can share I will do so.”

Reacting after the exchange Mr Carmichael said:

“I am glad that after some waiting we are finally seeing support for families on heating oil and other fuel sources getting off the ground. We cannot afford any further delay to these payments – the government needs to be on its game to ensure that those who do not receive the payments automatically get the advice they need.

“Most people should receive help without any action needed but we cannot be complacent. If anyone is concerned about their access to the Alternative Fuel Payment in the coming weeks I would urge them to contact my office. We must not let anyone fall through the gaps in support.”