The Energy Payment Support Scheme (EPSS) - screening

Global wholesale energy costs, particularly gas and oil, have increased at unprecedented rates. This has resulted in significant increases in gas, home heating oil and electricity bills for households in NI. Further significant price rises have been announced by a number of the energy suppliers.

To provide financial assistance to those most likely to be impacted by the fuel price increases, the Department for Communities is seeking to implement support mechanisms to ensure that those most impacted by the unprecedented energy price increases are able to heat their homes and pay their electric bills.  An Energy Payment Support Scheme (EPSS) is being developed to target those on low incomes who are in receipt of specified means-tested benefits.