Energy Bills Discount Scheme: Deadline Approaching
The Energy Bills Discount Scheme (EBDS), launched by the Government on 26 April 2023, offers valuable support to residential heat network consumers. Designed to alleviate the costs associated with heat and hot water supply between 1 April 2023 and 31 March 2024, this scheme specifically targets private for sale and rental properties and is also open to care homes . In this blog post, we will delve into the details of the EBDS scheme, its eligibility criteria, and how SAY Property can assist landlords navigating the application process and meeting the scheme’s requirements.
Understanding the Scheme
The primary goal of the EBDS is to provide occupiers of apartments connected to a heat network with similar support to those benefiting from the Government’s Energy Price Guarantee. By applying a discount to the wholesale element of the heat network’s energy tariff, the scheme aims to reduce the financial burden on heat network consumers.
Eligibility and Application Process
To qualify for the EBDS, landlords must fulfil specific criteria. Firstly, the heat network must serve one or more domestic consumers and rely on gas or electricity supplied by a licensed energy provider for heat generation. Eligible landlords need to submit an application by 25th July 2023 and must take the following steps:
- Apply for a higher heat network discount through the EBDS application portal: The portal facilitates eligibility verification, application submission, and document uploads as evidence.
- Register for the redress scheme administered by the Energy Ombudsman: This step ensures compliance with the scheme’s requirements and consumer protection measures.
Benefits and Responsibilities
Upon acceptance of the application, a Qualifying Heat Supplier certificate will be issued to the heat supplier and the associated energy provider. The benefit received must be passed on to the end consumer, accompanied by clear information on how the “pass-through” will be implemented. Failure to comply with these requirements may result in penalty notices or civil debt proceedings.
Passing on the Benefit
The EBDS sets out the following specific guidelines for heat suppliers to ensure the benefit is passed on transparently and promptly to end consumers:
- Written Notification: Heat suppliers must inform consumers in writing within 30 days of receiving the benefit.
- Prompt Implementation: The benefit should be passed on as soon as reasonably practicable, either by crediting the consumer’s bill or adjusting direct debit payments.
- Just and Reasonable Determination: If the benefit is not passed on in full, heat suppliers must provide consumers with evidence demonstrating a fair and reasonable amount.
Bulk Application: Simplify Your Process
For heat suppliers with over 10 networks, you can now make a single application for all your heat networks using this new bulk upload template. Simplify the process and save time. Access the template here.
How SAY Property Can Help
SAY Property Consulting specialises in residential and mixed-use management heat consultancy services. Our dedicated team of experts is available to assist heat suppliers throughout the EBDS application process and ensure compliance with the scheme’s requirements. With our guidance, heat suppliers can navigate the complexities of the scheme and optimise their benefits, ultimately reducing costs for consumers.
The EBDS offers a valuable opportunity for residential heat network consumers to save on their energy bills. With SAY Property Consulting’s expertise in EBDS applications and compliance, heat suppliers can efficiently navigate the scheme’s requirements. Contact SAY Property Consulting today to unlock the benefits of the EBDS and provide cost-effective solutions to your valued consumers.
Email louise@sayproperty.co.uk to find out more.
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