Contacting your energy supplier is usually the quickest way to get support – especially if you are already off supply or at risk of going off supply. Your supplier will assess your circumstances and may loan an amount of discretionary credit to last until you are next in a position to top-up. If you have a smart meter then this facility may be available through the supplier app. 

Each supplier operates a customer service helpline and often an online webchat facility that can be accessed via their website or app. Sometimes they can be contacted via social media platforms such as Facebook.

Occasionally we may have access to funding that allows us to provide fuel vouchers for households finding it difficult to pay for energy. This availability is very infrequent so it is always best to contact your supplier in the first instance.

Most large energy providers occasionally have hardship funds available to help with energy arrears. More details can be found through this website or by contacting your energy supplier. The Turn2Us website also has information on energy grants. If you would prefer to discuss this with one of our Energy Advisors, they will be able to provide more information or assist you with completing application forms.

If you have solar panels then they may help you make small savings on your energy bills. The electricity generated by the panels during daylight hours contributes towards some of the energy used during normal activities such as watching TV, charging phones, showering etc. However, power is not usually stored so once they stop generating you will go back to drawing all your electricity from the main power grid.

Electricity unit rates are on average 3 times the cost of gas. Therefore it is cheaper to use your gas heating system to heat a room. Portable electric heaters and electric fires may look cheap to run but are in fact very expensive. 

Note - Electric storage heaters use a cheaper overnight electricity rate to store heat                           

Air source and ground source heat pumps are very energy efficient and will save you money if used correctly. User guides are available on this website but you can request a visit from one of our Energy Advisors who can show you the most effective way to use your system.

Your registered electricity supplier can be found at the SP Electricity North West website(opens in a new window) or call free on 105 or 0800 195 4141.

Your registered gas supplier can be found at the Find My Supplier website(opens in a new window) or call 0800 389 8000.

Check with your supplier if they are offering smart meters. With a smart meter you will be able to track your day-to-day energy usage and find out where you can save energy and money. Talk to Stockport Homes about financial assistance. We will be able to advise you on any help available such as financial support from your local authority, additional benefits to help towards fuel costs, and government discount schemes to reduce your fuel bills.