Fay Jones MP led a debate last week in parliament on energy support for off grid homes, to call on the Government to reconsider and increase the £100 grant to off-gas grid homes.

Joining in on her debate were Members from across the House.

Ms Jones opened her debate by outlining the challenges we have faced over the last few years and commended the Government for doing “well to steer us through the obstacles”.

She highlighted the Government’s “rapid response” to rising energy prices and added that the support given to vulnerable people was necessary and appropriate.

Ms Jones focused her debate on the need for further energy support for off-grid homes. She drew particular attention to the concerns of her constituents - two thirds of Brecon and Radnorshire residents live in off-gas grid homes. There are concerns that these households are not receiving enough financial support to cover the spiralling costs of oil, and other heating fuels.

The MP highlighted that off-grid homes have experienced a 21 per cent price increase from two months ago, and a nearly 60 per cent increase over pre-Ukraine war prices. She explained that this was unsustainable for many rural households.

Graham Stuart, the Minster for State for the Department of Business, Energy, and Industrial Strategy who responded to the debate commended Ms Jones for securing this debate and acknowledged the strength of feeling surrounding this topic as demonstrated by the number of MPs in attendance.

He understood Ms Jones’s argument and went on to clarify the Government’s position on the £100 heating oil payment.

Mr Stuart began by explaining why the £100 was equitable to the Energy Support Scheme: “Households will receive £100 a month which is £1200 a year. The average amount of oil used in a year is 1,514 litres which costs £615 in 2021, but £1415 in 2022. The difference in the bill comes out at to roughly £100 a month.”

He added that the Government understands people’s concerns particularly if there is a price spike.

“If there is a price spike, Government will monitor the situation and be prepared to intervene if necessary,” he said.

“The Government will monitor the situation with a view to being able to intervene if necessary and maintain the equity that is promised.”

Speaking after the debate, Ms Jones said: “I was pleased to have the chance to bring this important issue right to the heart of Government. Rural issues are often sidelined and the deeply the felt effects of the energy crisis is not an exception.

“I welcome the package of support this Government has introduced by way of the Energy Support Scheme and the £400 energy rebate but want the Government to recognise that rural areas are not necessarily wealthy areas. Consumers have seen a significant rise in the price of oil and are therefore struggling to heat their homes.

“I am grateful to the Minister for responding to this debate and understanding the strength of feeling on this issue. I will continue to press the Government to review the £100 heating oil payment and ensure that my constituents’ concerns are heard.”