[PeteC]

It might feel like winter is far away, but colder weather – and higher energy costs – will be here before you know it. The Warm Home Discount Scheme is a Government initiative that gives eligible households £150 towards their energy bills during the colder months. Last year, working with Ofgem and the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), we paid out £1.5 million to help more than 10,500 households in Scotland. Here’s what to expect for 2025.

How it works

The DWP decides who qualifies in the Core Group, and lets us know which customers should receive the £150 payment. Eligibility is based on the benefits you receive. In Scotland, there are two groups: Core Group You qualify automatically – there’s no need to apply. The DWP tells us if you’re in this group, and we’ll confirm your payment. You must have a live electricity supply with us on 24 August 2025 to get the payment. If you were with another supplier on that date, contact them directly. Broader Group You need to apply for the payment. Applications open 3 September 2025 and close 10 September 2025. After the window closes, we’ll randomly draw names from all eligible applicants and let you know if you’ve been successful. If you’re no longer with Utilita when we make the payment, you won’t receive it – even if your application was successful.

How you’ll get the payment

The way we send your £150 depends on how you normally pay for your energy. If you change your payment method, it will change how you receive your WHD payment. See how you’ll be paid in our Help Centre.

Key dates

Now – We’re waiting for the DWP to confirm Core Group eligibility. 3–10 September – Broader Group application window. Late October – We’ll let you know if you’re getting the payment.

While you wait – check your details

Your name and contact details with us must match exactly what’s on the DWP’s records. If they don’t match, it could delay or prevent your payment. The easiest way to check is in the My Utilita app. If your name has changed or there’s a mismatch, you need to update both us and the DWP as soon as possible.

Need more support?

If you’re struggling to afford your energy, we have lots of advice and resources on our website. You can also visit GOV.UK for details of other Government schemes. Remember: Any Warm Home Discount payments that go unclaimed don’t benefit Utilita – they’re carried over to help customers next year. Thank you, Utilita Energy