Get help with energy costs
If we’re not able to help directly, there are other organisations that may be able to support you.
This page explains where to go next.
If you need urgent help right now
If you have no heating or electricity, or are about to run out of emergency credit:
- Contact your energy supplier straight away
- Ask about emergency credit, payment plans, or hardship support
Energy suppliers have a duty to offer help if you are struggling.
National energy support organisations
The following organisations provide free, trusted help to households across the UK.
They can help with:
- Understanding bills
- Dealing with energy suppliers
- Managing debt and arrears
- Finding grants or support schemes
You do not need to pay to use these services.
Citizens Advice
Citizens Advice offers free, confidential advice on energy problems and debt.
They can help you:
- Understand your rights
- Deal with billing issues
- Access extra support
Website and local contact details are available through their service.
Energy Saving Trust
The Energy Saving Trust provides guidance on reducing energy use and improving efficiency.
They offer:
- Practical advice
- Information on grants and schemes
- Support tailored to where you live
Local council or local support services
Many local councils and community organisations offer:
- Household support schemes
- Crisis grants or vouchers
- Help for people in financial difficulty
Contact your local council or search for local advice services in your area.
If you are dealing with debt
If energy debt is part of a wider financial problem, specialist debt advice may help.
Free debt advice services can:
- Help you understand your options
- Support you in speaking to suppliers
- Help create manageable payment plans
Do not ignore debt letters — help is available.
If you use a prepayment meter
If you use a prepayment meter and are struggling to keep it topped up:
- Ask your supplier about emergency or friendly credit
- Ask whether you can be moved to a different payment method
- Ask about hardship support
Suppliers must consider extra support if you are struggling.
If you are not sure where to start
If everything feels overwhelming, start with one step:
- Contact your energy supplier
- Or speak to a free advice organisation
You do not need to deal with this alone.
How the Centre for Energy Literacy fits in
The Centre for Energy Literacy provides:
- Clear, independent information
- Help understanding energy systems
- Guidance on where to get support
We do not replace advice charities or emergency services.
Our role is to help you find the right support.
You can still check eligibility or apply
If you haven’t already, you can:
Check eligibility for support
Apply for support
Take care
If you are under pressure or worried, that is understandable.
Support exists, even if it takes time to reach the right place.