With energy costs still high and the cost-of-living crisis continuing into 2025, many UK households are under pressure. That’s why the DWP’s £147 energy bill credit—offered through the Household Support Fund—is welcome news for thousands of eligible families.
This isn’t a cash payment handed directly to you. Instead, it’s a targeted energy credit for vulnerable, low-income households in Solihull who use biomass heating systems. If you’re unsure whether you qualify or how to apply, this guide will walk you through every step.
Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Support Amount | £147 credit applied to your energy bill |
| Administered By | Act on Energy (on behalf of Solihull Council) |
| Eligibility Area | Solihull Community Housing tenants only |
| Deadline | March 31, 2025 or until funds are used up |
| Income Threshold | £31,000 per year (gross household income) |
| Savings Cap | £0 unless you’re a pensioner (then up to £10,000) |
| Heating Type | Biomass heating (wood pellets, logs, or chips) |
| Official Website | Actonenergy.org.uk |
What Is It
This scheme isn’t a direct payment into your bank account—it’s a one-off credit of £147 applied to your energy meter. You won’t have to repay it, and it reduces your actual heating costs. It’s part of the government’s ongoing Household Support Fund effort to offer precise, targeted relief to those who often slip through the cracks of other support schemes.
Why biomass heating users? Because those off the main gas grid typically face higher fuel costs, and many rely on wood-burning systems that have become more expensive in recent years.
Why It Matters
According to Ofgem, typical UK household energy bills still hover around £1,800 annually, with even higher costs for homes that rely on alternative heating. Biomass users, who often live in rural or hard-to-reach properties, have seen prices spike for wood pellets and logs, yet they rarely qualify for broader energy discounts like the Energy Price Guarantee.
For those with tight incomes or health-related vulnerabilities, this £147 credit is a crucial support to help avoid energy debt and keep their homes warm through the colder months.
Who Qualifies
To be eligible, you must meet all the following conditions:
1. Live in Solihull Community Housing
You must be a tenant of Solihull Community Housing. This scheme does not cover homeowners or private tenants, though they may qualify for separate energy grants elsewhere.
2. Use Biomass Heating
Your main heating system must rely on:
- Wood pellets
- Wood logs
- Wood chips
You’ll need to provide evidence, like fuel receipts or a service contract.
3. Household Income and Savings
- Annual income must be £31,000 or less before tax.
- You must have no savings, unless you’re a pensioner, in which case you can have up to £10,000.
4. Show Vulnerability
At least one person in the household must:
- Have a long-term health condition
- Receive disability benefits (like PIP or DLA)
- Be struggling with debts (rent arrears, energy bills, payday loans)
- Receive other means-tested benefits
This ensures the support is aimed at those who need it most.
How To Apply
Before applying, collect:
- Proof of income (benefit letters, wage slips)
- Recent energy bill or smart meter screenshot
- Receipts for biomass fuel or boiler maintenance
- Tenancy document showing Solihull Community Housing
- Evidence of vulnerability (e.g. medical letter, DWP award letter)
Go to the Act on Energy Website
Visit www.actonenergy.org.uk and look for the Household Support Fund section. The application form and guidance are clearly outlined there.
Submit Your Application
Fill in the form online, upload your documents, and submit. You’ll get a confirmation email and a reference number to track progress.
Wait for a Decision
Most applications are processed in about 2–3 weeks. If approved, your energy meter or supplier account will be credited with £147 automatically.
Tip: Apply as early as possible. This is a limited fund and applications are handled on a first-come, first-served basis.
Real Story
Sarah is a single mum of two, living in Solihull Community Housing. She heats her home with a wood pellet system and earns £28,000 annually. She also receives Personal Independence Payment for a long-term health condition.
She applied with all her documents, and within three weeks, her energy supplier credited her account with £147. That support helped her reduce winter bills and use the savings for food and children’s clothing.
Sarah’s story shows how this bonus makes a real impact—especially when every pound counts.
FAQs
Is the £147 payment cash?
No, it’s a credit added to your energy meter or bill.
Do I qualify if I rent privately?
No, only Solihull Community Housing tenants are eligible.
What heating systems are covered?
Only biomass heating: wood pellets, logs, or chips.
When does the scheme close?
It runs until March 31, 2025, or until funds are used up.
Can I apply more than once?
No, the £147 credit is a one-time support per household.
