Government Energy Bill Relief Scheme update 21 September 2022
Following the announcement of the Government Energy Bill Relief Scheme introduced by the government on 8 September, there has now been further guidance published for businesses relating to the scheme.
After ongoing discussions with energy suppliers about the delivery of the scheme, the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) have today provided confirmation that businesses will receive much needed support this winter. Further information about the scheme has now been published on the government website.
What to do if you're in debt
We understand there may be times when your business goes through financial difficulty. And we're here to help you in the best way possible and get you back on track. What you should do will depend on your individual circumstance. Our advice will differ if;
You can't afford the bill you've just been sent
You're currently in debt
You struggle to pay your bills regularly
You've moved into a new premises and you're receiving debt collections letters for the previous tenant
You've been sent a bill you can't afford
We know that some months may be tougher than others. we have lots of tips on how you can manage your bills. There are many small changes you can make: setting up a Direct Debit can save you money and switching your bills to a monthly payment means you'll be paying manageable amounts little and often.
However, if you need to speak to us give us a call and we can sort out a payment plan. Or you can contact us via live chat.
There are many ways you can move towards being debt free. Take a look below at how you can stay on top of your bills and in control. If you want to speak to someone about your situation you can use our online chat service.
You regularly struggle to pay your bills
If you find that you're struggling every month to pay bills, we have some handy tips that may help you.
You’re receiving debt collection letters for a previous tenant
When you move into a new property the first thing to do is notify us. If you've been sent a bill or letter for a previous tenant, you have three options, you can;
Forward it to them directly (if you have their details)
Contact your landlord or letting agency, if you have one
Put it in an envelope and send it back to us at Freepost EDF CUSTOMER CORRESPONDANCE. Please include their address if you have it so we can try to contact them directly
How to manage your bills and keep your costs down
1. Save with Direct Debit
Paying in little chunks, rather than one big chunk, is a good way to plan and keep ahead of bills. You can set up a Direct Debit with us and save up to 7% on the cost of your energy.
Installing a smart Pay As You Go meter can help you keep on track of your energy spending. As well as getting a better idea of where you use the most energy in your business premises.
4. Stay on track with MyAccount
Keeping sight of how much you’re spending will help you plan ahead.
Quick access
Easy to view and download all your invoices, billing activity, accounts and MPANs
Raise all your requests, from updating a contract to changing the billing address
Track queries
Easy to use
Clear, handy dashboard displaying up-to-date accurate consumption data
Easily search your account history
Save time
Submit single or multiple meter readings at one time
When it comes to fixed tariffs, you know exactly what you’ll pay for your entire contract – no changes, no surprises. Even when energy prices go up, your bills stay the same. This makes budgeting and planning far easier. Take a look at what fixed price tariffs we have on offer.
7. Use less energy
If you use less, you’ll pay for less. So we’ve got a few tips on how to be a bit more energy efficient.
If you’re closed then ensure you turn off all lights and non-essential electrical equipment
When you’re open, you can close off any areas not currently in use, keep air vents and radiators clear and plug up any gaps where drafts are getting through.
Independent advice and help for businesses in Scotland
Funding to reduce your business energy costs
By working with Business Energy Scotland, most businesses can save on their energy bills and secure cashback on energy-efficiency projects, while funds last.
advice.scot is an official source of free advice and support for businesses. All the advice is on their website; they also have a knowledge centre of practical advice.
What if I can't pay my next bill
Please don’t struggle with your debt alone — we have an understanding team who can help. They’ll work with you to take some of the stress out of debt. Together, we’ll find a way to pay that suits you. Talk to us via live chat.
Will my credit rating be affected if I can’t pay? How can I avoid this?
If you find yourself in this situation, please don’t struggle alone. Our team is here to help talk to us via live chat.
We will always work together with you to sort out your debt. We never want to take legal action against our customers but this can happen if you don’t pay your bill or get in touch. However, when dealing with debt, the steps we’ll take can include registering a default on your credit file. In this case, it could then be difficult for you to gain credit with suppliers or obtain loans.
One perk of always paying your bill on time is we won’t need to contact you to remind you to pay. And as part of your terms and conditions, it’s important that you pay your bill on time. If paying this way is not right for you, why not think about setting up a Direct Debit? Just log in to MyAccount to find out how Direct Debit can save you time and money.
How do I know when payment is overdue?
The due date of your bill will always be on any bill we send you – so you’ll know when you need to pay. You can find more detailed information on understanding your bill here.
We will add a late payment charge of £10 for every monthly bill you don’t pay or £30 for every quarterly bill you don’t pay. So do get in contact as soon as you can.
What are the steps to collecting energy debt?
If you are struggling to pay, get in touch so we can work together to find an alternative way to pay. We have an understanding team here to help you when you need it.
We don’t want to take legal action against our customers or come to your business but this can happen if you don’t pay your bill. The steps we’ll take can include registering a default on your credit file, visiting your business to collect payment or changing your meter to a pay as you go meter.
Can I switch suppliers with an outstanding balance?
On the majority of our tariffs, you’ll be unable to switch to another supplier if you have an outstanding balance. Therefore, you’ll need to clear the debt before you change suppliers.
Why should I pay my final bill?
It’s really important to pay your final bill as this marks our supply for you ending. It’s always best to give us a reading on the day you end your supply or leave the property so you are billed to accurate readings, you can give us your meter readings in 60 seconds here.
What our customers say
I went to the Chat messaging service and agent Abhishek resolved the issue quickly for me. The service provided was fast, helpful and took care of everything I needed to be done. 5* service and much appreciated.
Trustpilot, EDF business customer
I was in disbelief at how easy everything has been with EDF compared to the other three large providers I tried and failed to switch to. On top of that, the Live Chat assistance was brilliant in clarifying all I needed to know. I would pay extra for this level of efficiency and support.
