CHESHIRE West and Chester Council-backed Qwest Energy has announced a new low-cost fuel tariff for residents in the area.

The Qwest Energy September 21 tariff has fixed standing and unit rate charges to September 2021, meaning that customers have peace of mind about their energy for almost three years.

Customers could see an average annual bill of around £1,017, and as the charges are fixed for the duration of the tariff, they won’t see unexpected price increases.

Cheshire West and Chester Councillor Karen Shore, Cabinet Member for the Environment, said: “We are delighted with the announcement by Qwest Energy to introduce the low-cost fuel tariff.

"Currently the average fuel poverty measure for Cheshire West and Chester is 11.3 per cent (11 per cent across England) and this initiative will certainly go a long way in helping to support residents experiencing fuel poverty and the Council's Plan for 2016-20 to eradicate fuel poverty in the borough.

“Furthermore, with 100 per cent renewable electricity as standard, Qwest Energy supports the council's Carbon Reduction Strategy reducing the amount of carbon, by promoting home energy efficiency, supporting renewable energy opportunities and lowering levels of CO2 emissions.”

The Qwest Energy Community Fund also means long-term, stable funding for affordable warmth initiatives for households in the borough that are impacted the most by fuel poverty.

For every customer who joins Qwest Energy, an annual contribution will be made to the Qwest Energy Community Fund. The fund could see up to £600,000 invested back into the community over the next five years, supporting initiatives such as:

  • Discounted energy tariff for pre-payment meter customers living in areas where fuel poverty levels are high
  • Energy efficiency advice workshops and drop-in sessions, throughout the borough
  • Home visits for people on income-related benefits, to provide tailored advice on saving energy

Michael Gibson, MD for Qwest Services, said: “By introducing the new low-cost tariff, Qwest Energy can offer competitive prices in the region and customers can help their community at the same time through the community fund.

“Winter can be an expensive time with more money being spent on heating our homes. We hope this tariff will help lighten the load for the people of Chester and Cheshire West.

“Our customers can also be assured that if they have any problems or queries, the UK-based Customer Services Centre are on hand to help and are contactable six days a week.”

For more information, visit qwestenergy.co.uk or call 0800 160 1240 for a quote.