LucidTalk – NEA NI: September 2023 – Northern Ireland (NI) Attitudinal Poll

On 4 July 2022, National Energy Action published a new report arguing for the introduction of a social energy tariff for low-income households.

LucidTalk – NEA NI: Northern Ireland (NI) Omnibus Poll Question Results General Report

As well as informing the future design and delivery of services to vulnerable customers through the GB smart meter roll-out, NEA has been leading the way in highlighting how network innovation projects can have a significant role in supporting vulnerable customers and facilitating a more efficient energy system.

A new report released today warns of significant hardship for fuel poor households in the coming winter, as a potent combination of higher energy use resulting from staying at home for longer is mixed with reductions in income.

The COVID-19 outbreak has already had a significant impact on household finances, especially those that already struggle with the costs of essential services. But there is a bigger gathering storm. Existing debt issues within the water and energy sectors are being badly exacerbated by the current crisis, and whilst welcome, current provision is not adequate to deal with the scale of these challenges.

The Connecting Homes for Health pilot project was delivered by fuel poverty charity NEA, Northern Gas Networks and YES Energy Solutions. In what’s believed to be an industry first, it combined funding from the Fuel Poor Network Extension Scheme and Warm Home Discount Industry Initiatives to install free gas connections and central heating systems in over 100 properties in the North East of England whose residents were on low incomes and at risk of cold-related ill health. Residents also benefited from support and energy advice on how to use their new systems effectively, improve energy efficiency and reduce fuel bills.

NEA appreciates that many energy suppliers and their staff will be working tirelessly to provide appropriate support and services for customers in vulnerable circumstances during the COVID-19 outbreak. NEA has also been capturing its own staff’s feedback on the early impacts COVID-19 is having on vulnerable customers’ access to support. The findings provide a snapshot of some emerging trends.

Research released by NEA has demonstrated that smart meters can benefit vulnerable and low-income households – but in most cases this requires additional support and advice.