As periods of extreme heat become more common across the UK, energy supplier EDF has introduced a new support scheme aimed at helping vulnerable households stay safe during hot weather. The company has announced a £1 million initiative that could provide eligible customers with practical cooling equipment, electricity bill support and advice on managing high temperatures. The programme reflects growing recognition that summer heat can present serious health risks, particularly for older people and those with medical conditions.
EDF has launched its new Heatwave Relief Packs to help vulnerable customers cope with rising temperatures.
Up to 10,000 eligible households could receive support packages worth up to £100 each. The initiative includes cooling equipment, financial assistance with electricity costs and practical advice for staying safe during heatwaves.
The programme is part of EDF’s wider £1 million customer support fund, which aims to respond to the challenges created by increasingly frequent periods of hot weather.
Support
Eligible households may receive a combination of practical items and financial assistance.
| Support Available | Details |
|---|---|
| Energy-efficient fan | Desk or pedestal fan |
| Portable fan | Handheld or neck fan |
| Blackout curtains | Helps reduce indoor temperatures |
| Reflective window film | Limits heat entering the home |
| Cooling towels | Helps lower body temperature |
| Reusable water bottle | Encourages hydration |
| Electricity support | Up to £20 credit or vouchers |
| Heatwave guidance | Advice on staying cool and safe |
The exact contents of each support package may vary depending on individual needs.
Eligibility
EDF has said customers will not need to apply through a general public application process.
Instead, eligible households will be identified through:
- EDF customer support teams.
- Referrals from charities and community organisations.
- Direct outreach to customers considered most at risk.
The scheme is designed to support vulnerable people who may struggle to cope with extreme heat or worry about the cost of using cooling appliances.
Reason
Energy suppliers have traditionally focused on helping customers stay warm during winter. EDF says growing health concerns linked to high summer temperatures mean support also needs to address the risks of overheating.
According to the UK Health Security Agency, there were 1,311 heat-associated deaths in England during the summer of 2024, with older people accounting for the highest number of fatalities.
Since 2020, more than 10,000 heat-related deaths have been recorded during periods of extreme heat across the UK.
These figures have increased awareness of the importance of protecting vulnerable households during prolonged hot weather.
Assistance
EDF says some customers are reluctant to use fans or cooling equipment because they are concerned about higher electricity bills.
To help address those concerns, the company is providing up to £20 in electricity credit or vouchers as part of the Heatwave Relief Packs. The support is intended to reduce the cost of operating essential cooling appliances during periods of high temperatures.
Advice
Alongside the support packs, EDF is encouraging households to follow simple steps to stay cool during heatwaves.
These include:
- Keeping curtains and blinds closed on windows facing direct sunlight.
- Opening windows during the evening when outside temperatures fall.
- Drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
- Checking on elderly relatives, neighbours and friends during periods of extreme heat.
These measures can help reduce indoor temperatures and lower the risk of heat-related illness.
Energy
The announcement comes as many households continue to manage higher energy costs.
Consumer finance expert Martin Lewis has recently encouraged households to review their current energy tariffs instead of automatically remaining on more expensive deals. Comparing available fixed-rate tariffs may help some customers reduce their overall energy bills.
EDF says the Heatwave Relief Packs form part of its wider commitment to supporting vulnerable customers throughout the year as changing weather patterns create new challenges for households.
As hotter summers become more common, support programmes such as EDF’s Heatwave Relief Packs highlight a broader approach to customer assistance beyond the traditional focus on winter heating. By combining practical cooling equipment, financial support and heat safety advice, the initiative aims to help vulnerable households stay safe while managing the additional costs associated with extreme temperatures.
FAQs
Who can receive EDF’s Heatwave Relief Pack?
Eligible vulnerable customers identified by EDF and partner organisations.
How much is the support package worth?
Each package is worth up to £100.
What items are included in the pack?
Fans, blackout curtains, cooling items and bill support.
Does the pack include electricity bill help?
Yes, up to £20 in electricity credit or vouchers.
