Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what discussions he has had with (a) the Welsh Government and (b) Welsh local authorities on Energy Bills Support Scheme Alternative Funding, including a portal for people who do not have a direct relationship with an electricity supplier; what steps his Department is taking to encourage people to apply for the funding; and what steps he is taking to help people without internet access to apply for that scheme.

The Government is speaking to the Welsh Government to provide them with updates on the EBSS Alternative Funding scheme and is working with local authorities across the UK to prepare for delivery of the scheme. The Government is also working closely with key stakeholder groups who are helping to provide information and updates to eligible households and who will help to raise awareness of the application process when the portal opens later in February. A dedicated customer helpline will be available to assist customers who do not have online access, with further details to be released this month.