New fuel poverty definition announced

Following an independent review and a consultation a new definition of fuel poverty has been set out. It is aiming to target resources at those who need it most. A household will be defined as ‘fuel poor’ if its:

• Total income is below the poverty line (taking into account energy costs); and
• Energy costs are higher than typical.

The current definition of fuel poverty is where a household spends 10% or more of income on energy costs. The reason for change is that the current definition includes some wealthy households but ignores others that need help with their energy costs.
 
Read more details including the background to the change at GOV.UK