Record £2.5 Million of Fuel Poverty Grants Awarded

We’re awarding a record £2.5 million of fuel poverty grants to 300 grassroots organisations, in the latest round of our Community Matters Fund. Vulnerable customers across the Midlands, South West and South Wales will be able to access additional support this winter, as a result of fuel poverty grants awarded to local charities and community groups.

Recipients include Exeter-based Libraries Unlimited which has been awarded £9,900 to deliver warm hubs to local people in the Torbay area. A spokesperson from Libraries Unlimited said: “We are delighted to be able to open for extended hours throughout the winter, and we know local residents will be very happy too. This extended offer will be invaluable for anyone looking for computer access, study space or simply to get out of the cold and find a welcoming space.”

The latest round of Community Matters funding was launched as an urgent response to the national cost of living crisis, which is putting millions of households at risk of fuel poverty.

Alison Sleightholm, Regulation and Corporate Director at National Grid, said: “Tackling fuel poverty is an immediate and pressing priority for us. This year, we’re giving away a record amount to support our most vulnerable. We’re pleased to see the first community organisations, charities and local authorities being awarded their grants. Our multimillion-pound fund is supporting a wide range of worthwhile and ambitious projects which will benefit communities this winter and help families keep homes warm.”

Earlier this year, more than 100 local groups received crucial fuel poverty grants after making successful applications to the fund. This time, applicants will also have access to a range of free training and energy efficiency advice materials which they can customise and share with their communities, to support planned or existing projects. 

The Community Matters Fund is part of our ongoing commitment to support vulnerable customers in the communities we serve. Follow the fund on social media at #GridCommunityFund.