First £600 Energy Support Payments Issued

Households using a pre-pay meter do not need to contact their energy supplier ahead of receiving the £600 Energy Bill Support Scheme payment, as all letters will simply be addressed to 'The Occupier'.

As the first payments begin to arrive with households across NI, the Consumer Council's Director of Infrastructure and Sustainability, Peter McClenaghan, said: "Over the last few days, we have spoken to all those responsible for the roll out of this massive scheme, the Government Department, The Post Office, and the energy suppliers.

"It is fantastic news that the first of the £600 payments are now being made to consumers in Northern Ireland, but it will take a few weeks for us all to receive our payments.

"The most important piece of advice is you don’t need to do anything right now.

"If you pay for your electricity by direct debit, you will receive the money directly into your bank account.

"All the rest of us will receive a simple white envelope in the post marked 'IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS ENCLOSED (this is not a bill)'.

"If you have a pre-payment meter the envelope will be addressed to 'the occupier'.

"If you have a credit meter and do not pay by direct debit, the envelope will be addressed to the person in your household who has the account with your electricity supplier.

"There is no need to contact your energy supplier, Post Office, or the Consumer Council. However, if you are seeking further information, please visit www.consumercouncil.org.uk/energysupport, your suppliers website, or the Government website, where frequently asked questions are published."