Energy switching scheme to help people in Rotherham tackle fuel poverty

The community energy switching scheme will be open to all Rotherham residents from April 2021, with the aim of reduce the number of households paying high tariffs for gas and electricity, and reducing fuel poverty.

Although the scheme would be open to all residents, the council say it will be particularly beneficial for vulnerable residents, and will help them change to a cheaper tariff - with an average three bedroom house saving up to £300 per year.

At a meeting in September 2019, Rotherham council's cabinet agreed to the scheme, and awarded the contract to Robin Hood Energy.

However, due to a change in management at Robin Hood Energy, the company could no longer agree to the terms and conditions set by the council.

As a result, a revised contract has been re-tendered, and a short term switching scheme is being developed to "provide immediate support to Rotherham residents".

This scheme will help households understand their bills, compare the market and help residents switch their suppliers.

The council has also secured a grant from the National Energy Association (NEA), which will be used to show residents aged 65 and over the benefits of smart meters, which is due to run from August to December.

The scheme is expected to cost £81,000 over a three year period, including employing a community energy officer and providing a marketing, communication and administration budget.

Rotherham Council’s Cabinet Member for Jobs and the Local Economy, Councillor Denise Lelliott, said: “Fuel poverty still remains a significant issue for lots of our residents. This scheme, once it is up and running, would give us a real opportunity to make a significant difference.

“Although it was disappointing we could not secure a partner last year, our commitment to helping residents reduce their bills and help the environment remains. The process provided a valuable insight into the current energy market which will be used in the revised proposals to better benefit those who take up the scheme.”

The Council will not make any financial gain from the scheme, with all benefits of lower tariffs falling to residents.

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