Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, pursuant to the Answer of 24 January 2023 to Question 124129 on Energy Bills Rebate: Standards and to the Answer of 3 February 2023 to Question 135481 on Energy Bills Rebate: Park Homes, for what reason the opening of the application portal was delayed.

The Government is still working through several aspects of the scheme that are vital for its successful delivery. There are significant complexities in delivering a novel scheme with a wide variety of eligible groups with different energy arrangements. In addition, the Government must always ensure consumers are protected, public money is well spent, including robust verification and anti-fraud checks, and that local authorities are suitably prepared to deliver the support. The online application portal, and accompanying contact centre helpline for those without online access, will be launched by 27 February.