Response to Ofgem consultations on standing charges and debt

“We welcome Ofgem’s consultations announced today and will always work collaboratively to support efforts to advance innovative, enduring solutions to address energy unaffordability. It’s essential that all elements of necessary change - including standing charges and urgently tackling record unsustainable debt - are approached holistically. Only through a comprehensive, coordinated effort can we deliver real, long-term solutions. 

“As just two examples, our current £92 million E.ON Next Winter support scheme offers immediate help with heating costs and debt relief - demonstrating just some of the potential impact a co-funded social tariff could have. At the same time, our Coventry battery trial shows how smart technology, debt intervention, time-of-use tariffs and energy efficiency can powerfully combine immediate financial support with long-term measures benefit into permanent savings which – for the same costs - are greater and longer lasting than, helping break the cycle of struggle.

“By working together across government, industry, and consumer groups, we can turn the current challenges into opportunities for real change. This means ensuring energy is no longer a source of stress and poverty, but a foundation for warmer homes, stronger communities, and a more sustainable future.”