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EDF giving away free fans and energy credit to households this summer

The energy supplier is launching new Heatwave Relief Packs as part of a 1 million initiative to help vulnerable customers in periods of extreme summer heat

[Woman sitting in front of electric fan holding glass of water cooling down during summer heatwave. Close up]

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EDF is giving away free fans(Image: MementoJpeg via Getty Images)

EDF is giving away free fans and energy credit this summer to help struggling households stay cool.

The energy supplier is launching new Heatwave Relief Packs as part of a 1 million initiative to help vulnerable customers in periods of extreme summer heat.

It comes after the UK recorded its highest ever June temperature of 37.7C last month, while amber and yellow heat health alerts are in place this week across England with highs of 35C forecast.

Up to 10,000 EDF customers who may struggle to keep their homes cool are set to benefit. Eligible households will receive tailored support worth up to 100, which can include:

• Energy-efficient desk or pedestal fans
• Handheld or neck fans
• Thermal blackout curtains
• Reflective window film
• Reusable hydration bottles
• Cooling towels
• Up to 20 of electricity credit or vouchers to help cover the cost of running cooling appliances
• Practical advice and guidance on staying safe during hot weather

EDF will identify customers through its support teams, referrals from trusted partners and community organisations, and direct customer engagement channels.

Joe Souto, Director of Retail at EDF said: "When temperatures fall sharply in winter, there is widespread recognition that vulnerable households may need extra support to stay safe and warm. We believe the same principle should apply when temperatures become dangerously high.

"We're increasingly seeing a summer version of the 'heating or eating' dilemma. Some vulnerable customers are reluctant to use fans or other cooling appliances because they're worried about the cost. Nobody should have to choose between protecting their health and managing their household budget.

"As heatwaves become more frequent, support for vulnerable customers must evolve too. Our Heatwave Relief Packs provide practical help when it's required, helping those customers in most need stay safe without worrying about the cost of running essential cooling equipment."

Energy bills have just gone up again after the Ofgem price cap rose by around 13% on July 1. For the typical household that pays by direct debit, the price cap increased from 1,641 to 1,862 a year.

The price cap will remain in place until October, when it will be updated again - and households have been warned not that bills will remain high.

Cornwall Insight said it expects a typical household to be facing a bill of 1,849 from October. This will land harder as people switch their heating back on as temperatures drop.

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