Last year, in response to increasing energy costs and the rising cost of living, the scheme made the monthly payments to 3,800 local households to help with their heating bills.
Covering the period from October to March, the scheme replaced the normal system which used the temperature the previous month to determine how much money households would receive.
Recent reports from the Retail Price Index have indicated that fuel prices have stabilised over the past year. However, Jersey Electricity announced that electricity prices will increase by 12% at the start of 2024 – equating to an estimated £3 increase in an average weekly electricity bill.
With the planned price increases and the ongoing pressures of the cost of living, Minister for Social Security Deputy Elaine Millar has proposed to extend the monthly £70 scheme through this winter.
Pictured: Minister for Social Security Deputy Elaine Millar has proposed an extension to the scheme.
Deputy Millar said: “Last year, we provided essential support to over 3,800 households by granting monthly payments of £70 throughout the winter months to offset heating costs, following worldwide escalation in energy prices.
“The impact of this scheme was that these households received 58% more support than normal.
“I am delighted to present plans for the continuation of this invaluable scheme for the upcoming winter, as it serves to assist eligible pensioner households and low-income households that include young children or individuals with disabilities.”
The proposal is scheduled to be debated in the States Assembly on Tuesday 12 September.