How the energy bill relief scheme could help support local authorities

On September 21, the government unveiled plans for its energy bill relief scheme which aims to protect non-household energy users, including public sector organisations, from rising energy prices. The discount will be applied automatically for those eligible, starting October 1, 2022. 

With local authorities already under an immense amount of pressure, thanks to the fallout of Covid-19, staffing shortages and Brexit implications – this initiative was warmly welcomed by many across the sector, including the Local Government Association. 

Cllr Andrew Western, Chair of the Local Government Association’s Resources Board, commented: “The inclusion of councils in the Government’s six-month energy price guarantee announced today is a positive step which should help mitigate against some of the extra pressures councils face this year as a result of spiralling energy costs.

“Alongside energy bills, councils are also facing massive increases in costs due to spiralling inflation and National Living Wage increases both this year and in future years. This is forcing councils to reset budgets leading to cuts to local services just to meet their legal duty to balance the books.

“Further government support will be needed by councils and residents to cope with these ongoing pressures and to protect the services that our communities rely on every day and will be vital to help residents cope through the cost-of-living crisis.”

Imperium Resourcing welcomes the opportunity to reduce pressures on local authorities and looks forward to learning of any further steps the government might take to help support councils across the country.