Question reference: S6W-11257
- Date lodged: 30 September 2022
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Current status: Answered by Michael Matheson on 18 October 2022
Question
To ask the Scottish Government what steps it is taking to protect users of pre-payment energy meters during winter, in light of reports that they could be impacted first in an energy cost crisis.
Answer
We know that households using prepayment meters are at particular risk of self-rationing and self-disconnection this winter.
While many of the powers in relation to price setting in the energy market remain with the UK Government, the Scottish Government is using all of its available powers to help these vulnerable consumers. The Emergency Budget Review will extend our Fuel Insecurity Fund through 2022-23, making available a further £10million to Third Sector Organisations to support those facing fuel insecurity. We have also provided an additional £1.2million to advice services across Scotland to enhance support available to those seeking advice on paying their bills and energy efficiency.