Freezing weather increases consumer access to cheap energy - 08/01/2009
The prolonged freezing weather conditions have increased consumer access to cheap energy, with freezing forecasts unlocking an extra £25 a week for many people.
When temperatures fall below freezing for a full week, or are forecast to do so, millions of vulnerable homeowners become eligible for an increase to their cold weather payment, helping them cope with price rises from energy suppliers. Due to the current freezing weather conditions afflicting the UK, over half a million people in the London area can currently access the additional money.
James Purnell, work and pensions secretary, said: "Millions of vulnerable people and pensioners are now in line for this extra help after the recent cold snap."
With much of Britain experiencing temperatures plummeting below freezing, cold weather payments have surpassed £100 million this winter as over 50 weather stations have forecast continuing cold snaps.
Vulnerable households such as those with disabled residents, pensioners or very young children, are the main ones to benefit from the payments.
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