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Around 860,000 households are set to receive a £63 reduction in their electricity costs under the Household Electricity Discount Scheme. Suppliers will apply the discount automatically from Tuesday 6 October, so nobody needs to apply.
Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald marked the start of the scheme this week. She said: "This £63 will help people with the cost of electricity as we move towards the winter months. I appreciate it will not ease all the pressures people are facing but it is hopefully a welcome payment for workers and families struggling with the cost-of-living crisis."
Minister Archibald also addressed those who may not need the payment. "And if there are people who feel that they do not need this support, I would encourage them to make a voluntary donation to a fuel poverty charity, to help those who need it most," she said.
The discount applies to eligible bill-paying and pre-pay/keypad customers, and suppliers will add it to eligible domestic electricity accounts. Households that pay by bill will see the £63 credited to their next bill. Pre-pay/keypad customers will receive £63 in addition to the value of their next top up, through the normal top-up process. The scheme is not means tested or based on consumption.
The UK Treasury approved £85.4 million in June 2026 to cover 75% of the domestic cost of the Northern Ireland Renewable Obligation (NIRO) over three years. A further £25.7 million has been secured to provide additional support in 2026/27, equivalent to the temporary six months reduction in VAT on domestic electricity bills being provided in Britain. The scheme provides a combined single payment for this year, and total funding this year is estimated to be £53m.
The scheme will continue in 2027 and 2028, with the value of future discounts confirmed ahead of payment.
Further information is available on NI Direct at www.nidirect.gov.uk.
