DWP £147 Cash Bonus Coming Soon! Energy Bill Support Fund 2025 – Check If You’re Eligible

With energy prices still causing concern for many UK households in 2025 and the ongoing cost-of-living crisis putting additional strain on everyday finances, there is some welcome news for residents in Solihull who rely on biomass heating. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is offering targeted energy support through the Household Support Fund. Specifically, a £147 energy bill credit is now available to qualifying low-income households. This isn’t just a headline benefit—it’s a real opportunity to reduce heating costs and stay warm through the colder seasons.

Let’s take a deeper look into what this scheme offers, who qualifies, how to apply, and why it matters more than ever.

What Is the £147 Energy Credit?

This payment is part of the broader Household Support Fund initiative set up by the UK government to provide relief to vulnerable households who may not be receiving enough support through mainstream benefit programs. Rather than a direct bank transfer, the £147 is applied directly as a credit to your energy meter or account. This means your energy costs are reduced without you having to physically handle the money, making it safer and simpler.

In this particular case, the credit is administered by Act on Energy on behalf of Solihull Council. It is designed specifically for tenants of Solihull Community Housing who heat their homes using biomass fuels such as wood pellets, logs, or chips.

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Why Is This Support Targeted at Biomass Heating Users?

Many homes in rural or off-grid areas don’t have access to the main gas network. Instead, they rely on alternative heating sources like biomass systems. These systems use wood-based fuels that have seen significant price increases in recent years due to supply issues, inflation, and rising transportation costs.

Unlike traditional gas or electric users, households relying on biomass often do not benefit from energy discounts like the Energy Price Guarantee or dual fuel discounts. That’s why this targeted support is so essential—it helps fill the gap left by broader schemes that don’t always reach everyone.

Let’s say you’re a family of four living in a semi-rural Solihull property. You use a pellet boiler to heat your home, and fuel prices have shot up by over 30% compared to previous years. That could mean an extra £300–£400 over the winter months. A £147 credit can make a noticeable difference in such a scenario.

Key Features of the Scheme

Here’s a breakdown of the main details you need to know:

• Support Amount: £147 energy bill credit (not direct cash)
• Who Runs It: Act on Energy, for Solihull Council
• Eligibility Location: Solihull Community Housing tenants only
• Deadline to Apply: March 31, 2025 or until funds are fully allocated
• Income Limit: Household income must be £31,000 or less (before tax)
• Savings Cap: £0 for most households; pensioners can have up to £10,000 in savings
• Heating Requirement: Main system must be biomass-based (pellets, logs, chips)

Who Qualifies for This Support?

To be eligible, you need to meet all of the following conditions. Here’s what that means in more practical terms:

1. You Must Live in Solihull Community Housing

This support is specifically aimed at tenants within Solihull Community Housing. If you rent privately or own your own home, you unfortunately won’t be eligible under this scheme—though other energy grants may be available to you.

2. You Use Biomass Heating as Your Main Source

Biomass heating includes wood-based fuels like pellets, chips, or logs. You might use a pellet stove or a biomass boiler to heat your home and hot water. To prove this, you’ll need to provide evidence such as recent receipts for wood fuel, a maintenance contract for your heating system, or even photos of the heating setup.

3. You Meet Income and Savings Limits

You must have a total gross household income of £31,000 or less per year. That includes all sources of income, not just employment (such as pensions, child benefits, or other government aid).

In terms of savings, you must have no savings unless you’re a pensioner. Pensioners can have up to £10,000 and still qualify. This ensures the support is focused on people with the greatest financial need.

4. You or a Household Member Must Be Considered Vulnerable

This includes anyone who:

• Has a long-term illness or disability (e.g., arthritis, chronic pain, heart or lung disease)
• Receives disability-related benefits (such as Personal Independence Payment or Disability Living Allowance)
• Is struggling with debts or rent arrears
• Gets means-tested benefits like Universal Credit, Housing Benefit, or Income Support

This requirement ensures the grant supports people who truly need the extra help to stay warm and manage their bills.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Gather Your Documents

Before you begin the application, make sure you have:

• Proof of your income (pay slips, benefits letters, pension statements)
• A recent energy bill or smart meter screenshot
• Biomass fuel receipts or boiler maintenance contract
• Your tenancy agreement from Solihull Community Housing
• Any documents that prove your health or financial vulnerability (like a doctor’s letter or a DWP award letter)

Step 2: Visit the Website

Go to the Act on Energy website: www.actonenergy.org.uk

Look for the section titled Household Support Fund. Here, you’ll find all the guidance and the application form.

Step 3: Fill and Submit the Form

Complete the online form, upload all the required documents, and click submit. Once submitted, you’ll receive a confirmation email and a reference number to track your application.

Step 4: Wait for Processing

Applications typically take 2 to 3 weeks to process. If successful, your energy supplier or meter will be credited automatically with the £147. You don’t need to do anything further.

Important Tip: Apply early. The fund is limited, and once the money runs out, no further credits will be issued.

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Real-Life Example: Sarah’s Story

Sarah is a single mother of two living in a Solihull Community Housing property. She heats her home with a biomass system using wood pellets. Her annual income is £28,000, and she receives PIP due to a chronic back condition.

She applied online through Act on Energy with all her documents ready. Within 18 days, her energy provider confirmed a credit of £147 had been added to her account. That money went toward her winter heating bill, and the savings allowed her to buy school uniforms and extra groceries for her kids.

Sarah’s experience is just one example of how even a small amount of targeted help can make a big difference to a family’s comfort and stability.

Final Thoughts

This £147 credit may not seem like a huge amount at first glance, but for many struggling households, it represents warmth, security, and peace of mind during the coldest months. If you or someone you know lives in Sol hull Community Housing and relies on biomass heating, don’t miss this chance. Applying is easy, and the support can go a long way in easing your energy burden.

Visit www.actonenergy.org.uk today and take the first step toward making your home warmer and your finances a little more manageable.

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