Energy support for non-domestic supply constituents

Dear The Rt Hon Jacob Rees-Mogg MP,

Following Monday’s (17/10) statement in the House of Commons I am still unclear about the government’s support for constituents who are unable to access a domestic energy supply.

My first related to off-grid customers, of which there are many in my constituency. Off-grid customers are particularly vulnerable to rising costs as there are more factors affecting them. The rise in energy costs across the board is one part, but these customers have also been impacted by a cut in oil production. Supply will be unable to meet the demand and prices will undoubtably rise again.

On Monday, the Minister confirmed a £100 payment for off-grid customers, as well as an equivalent to the £400 energy bills support scheme (EBSS). This £100 figure is simply not enough, given the volatility of the market.

• How was this £100 figure agreed upon, given the dramatic price rises faced by off-grid customers?
• Can you confirm the eligibility for this payment?
• How will this payment be made?
• When will this payment be made?

My second question relates to support for park home residents. I have written to the department numerous times about my constituents who live in park homes and pay electricity costs through the ground owner, rather than their own domestic supply account. I was first told that an announcement would be forthcoming.
 
Sometime later, I was then told that these customers would receive equivalent support to the EBSS, with further details being announced in the Autumn. These details are still to be announced.

• Can you assure me that support will be calculated on the number of individual homes, not on the number of landlords or ground owners?
• How will this payment be made?
• When will this payment be made?

I’m sure you can appreciate the level of uncertainty and panic felt by my constituents who are off-grid customers or park home residents. Scouting for better deals is simply not an option and they are desperate for help.

The energy crisis has been at the forefront of conversation and debate for months, in Parliament and in people’s living rooms. The time taken for these announcements has added to the stress faced by millions. Clarity is needed now.
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Yours sincerely,

Tonia Antoniazzi MP
Member of Parliament for Gower / Aelod Seneddol dros Gŵyr