A vital financial boost is landing for thousands of households across the UK this month, as a key government-backed energy support scheme makes payments worth £150 directly to eligible customers.
How and When Are Payments Being Made?
Major supplier Utilita Energy has confirmed it began transferring the Warm Home Discount Scheme credits to customers with smart meters from January 7, 2026. The firm states it will continue processing these payments throughout January, so further credits are on the way for those who qualify.
For households without a smart prepayment meter, the £150 support will arrive via a different method. Customers who pay by direct debit will see an automatic credit applied to their account. Those with traditional, non-smart prepayment meters will receive a voucher through the post. All payments under the scheme must be completed by the end of March.
Who Qualifies for the £150 Energy Support?
Eligibility for this one-off discount is determined by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), not by individual energy companies. The criteria differ slightly across the UK nations.
In England and Wales, you qualify if you receive the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit, or if you are on a low income. In Scotland, you must either get that Pension Credit element or be on a low income and also meet your specific supplier's criteria for the scheme.
A significant change this year is that eligible households do not need to apply; the support should be provided automatically if you meet the conditions.
Why Have Some Payments Been Delayed?
Utilita has explained that payments have been issued later this winter due to a new round of changes that expanded eligibility, meaning more of their customers qualify for help. The supplier stated it must pay out a higher total amount upfront and is reliant on receiving government funding to do so.
"This year, The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero have set the dates that we’ll get these funds as January 2026," a Utilita spokesperson said. "That timing determines when we’re able to make payments to you." The company added it has been working with the government and regulator Ofgem to minimise delays.
If you believe you meet the eligibility criteria but have not received a notification letter, you should contact the DWP helpline on 0800 030 9322. You may need to provide details about your household, benefits, or energy account for them to review your case.
