Applications have today (26 April) opened for energy and trade intensive sectors to claim up to a 20% discount on their wholesale energy bills.
The scheme forms part of the UK Government’s new Energy Bills Discount Scheme launched this month and allows businesses most affected by the significant rise in energy prices to claim additional discounts between 1 April 2023 and 31 March 2024.
Ceramics and textiles are among the range of sectors that could potentially benefit from the scheme. This is because their products require energy-intensive manufacturing processes however, international competition restricts them from raising their prices to cover increased costs.
Heat network operators will also be able to apply for sector-specific additional support to ensure households are not subjected to disproportionately high bills in comparison to customers using the Energy Price Guarantee.
Discounts could go live as early as June, with support backdated to 1 April.
“We are beginning to see light at the end of the tunnel for global energy prices as Putin’s grip on the market weakens – but our vital energy and trade intensive industries remain uniquely exposed to these challenges,” said Amanda Solloway, Minister for Energy Consumers and Affordability.
“We stand firmly behind British business and that’s why we’re protecting them with an additional offer of support so they can continue to thrive. I urge businesses to check their eligibility and submit an application right away so they can get the help they need.”
