In response to rising energy costs and increasing financial pressure on low-income families, the UK government, through the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), is offering a £147 Energy Support Fund payment in 2025.
This one-off energy credit is aimed specifically at vulnerable households that rely on biomass heating systems and meet specific income and eligibility criteria.
This article provides a full breakdown of who qualifies, how much you’ll receive, how to apply, and what to expect next.
What Is the £147 Energy Support Fund?
The £147 Energy Support Fund 2025 is a targeted payment provided to help vulnerable households cover the costs of heating their homes, especially those using non-standard systems like biomass boilers or heaters that rely on wood pellets, logs, or chips.
This payment is not given in cash. Instead, it is directly credited to energy accounts, ensuring it is used specifically for heating and not diverted elsewhere.
Who Is Eligible for the £147 Energy Payment?
To qualify for this energy support payment in 2025, the household must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Reside in Solihull Community Housing
- Use a biomass heating system
- Gross annual household income must be £31,000 or less
- Household must have no savings, except pensioners who may have up to £10,000
- At least one member of the household must be considered vulnerable, such as:
- Those with chronic health conditions
- Individuals receiving Disability Living Allowance (DLA), Personal Independence Payment (PIP), or Carer’s Allowance
- Households with serious debts or under debt management plans
- Pensioners receiving State Pension
- Households eligible for benefits-based free school meals
- Those referred by a food bank, school, or charity
How to Apply for the £147 Support Payment
While the payment is not automatic, the application process is straightforward and only requires a few key steps:
- Prepare Your Documents:
- Proof of residence
- Recent energy bills
- Receipts for biomass fuel purchases
- Proof of benefits or vulnerable status
- Identification and income documents
- Complete the Application Form:
- Fill out the self-certification application form specific to your area.
- Include all required documentation.
- Submit Your Application:
- Send your completed application and documents to the designated email or contact point provided by your local energy assistance program.
- Await Confirmation:
- Once reviewed, you will receive a confirmation, and the payment will be directly applied to your energy account.
Key Payment Details
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | £147 (one-time credit) |
| Mode of Payment | Directly to energy meter/account |
| Eligible Heating Type | Biomass systems only |
| Income Limit | £31,000 per household |
| Savings Limit | £0 (except pensioners – up to £10,000 allowed) |
| Application Deadline | Rolling – until 31 March 2025 or funds exhausted |
| Reapplication Window | After 6 months from last received payment |
Other Energy Support Options
In addition to this fund, qualifying households may be eligible for further assistance including:
- Warm Home Discount (£150)
- Cold Weather Payment
- Winter Fuel Payment (up to £600)
- Fuel Vouchers for pre-paid energy meters
These options can be accessed independently or alongside the £147 payment, depending on your household situation and benefits status.
The £147 Energy Support Fund 2025 offers crucial relief to households relying on biomass heating during the cold months. If you meet the outlined criteria, it’s important to act quickly, as funds are limited and applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis.
This initiative reflects the government’s broader commitment to helping vulnerable communities manage essential energy expenses without falling into deeper financial hardship.
Ensure your documents are prepared, follow the application steps carefully, and double-check that you meet all requirements to secure your energy credit this year.
FAQs
Is the £147 payment given in cash?
No, the payment is credited directly to your energy account or prepay meter.
Can I apply more than once?
Yes, but only after six months have passed since your last successful application.
What if I use standard gas or electric heating?
This specific fund is only available for households using biomass heating systems.