Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has today confirmed that around 860,000 households will receive a £63 discount off electricity bills, from 6 October 2026.
The Household Electricity Discount will be applied automatically by electricity suppliers. The Scheme is not means tested or based on consumption and applies to both households that receive electricity bills, and those who use pre-pay/Keypad meters.
Announcing the discount scheme, Minister Archibald said: “This discount will provide some help for families as winter kicks in and energy bills rise.”
Earlier this year, Minister Archibald announced that she had secured agreement from Treasury to deliver annual electricity discounts of around £30 to households for three years, comparable to support being delivered in Britain.
Following the announcement of a temporary six-month VAT reduction on domestic electricity supplies in Britain, the Minister negotiated for additional funding to deliver a combined and enhanced single payment in 2026 worth £63.
The Minister continued: “This £63 discount delivers support to households through a single automatic discount. No forms, no applications and no action is required.
“Some people may feel they don’t need this financial support. If so, I would encourage those people to donate to a fuel poverty charity. Your support could make a real difference to someone who needs it most.”
The Household Electricity Discount Scheme will continue in 2027 and 2028, with the value of future discounts confirmed ahead of payment.
For more information on the scheme and Frequently Asked Questions, please visit the NI Direct website.
