New Scottish Power Social Tariff Cuts Prices For Vulnerable Customers
In January 2009 ScottishPower is launching a Social Tariff. The tariff is available to customers who are aged 60 or over and in receipt of a social welfare benefit, e.g. Attendance Allowance, Council Tax Benefit (this does not include Single Occupancy Discount), Disability Living Allowance, Disabled Persons Tax Allowance, Child Tax Credit (where household income is less than £14,600), Housing Benefit, Income Based Jobseeker’s Allowance, Income Support, Pension Credit, Working Tax Credit (where household income is less than £14.600), Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit (must also have a Constant Attendance Allowance), or War Disablement Pension (must also have a Constant Attendance Allowance);
The tariff will offer prices equivalent to Discounted Energy online DD rates available in the customer’s area. (The prices are not fixed – they will be subject to future market movements but will always remain the lowest priced SP tariff in the region).
In addition to the tariff customers will be given access to a Benefits Health Check to ensure they are claiming all the benefits they are entitled to and to free or discounted insulation and lighting offers to help maximise the energy efficiency of the home.
The aim is to offer customers a sustainable package of assistance that addresses each element known to contribute towards fuel poverty:
1. Cost of Fuel – A Social Tariff that brings prices in line with the best online DD package in their region regardless of payment method
2. Energy Efficiency of the Home – Free energy efficiency advice/access to measures where available
3. Household Income – Access to free Benefits Health Check
