EDF is sending out tailored 'heatwave relief packs' to help vulnerable customers manage heatwaves. 

Up to 10,000 eligible households will receive the packs from the energy giant, which are worth up to £100.

The packs will include items such as a neck or handheld fan, a desk or pedestal fan, thermal blackout curtains, reflective window film, reusable hydration bottles and cooling towels.

Eligible customers may also get £20 of electricity credit or vouchers to help cover the cost of running cooling appliances. 

EDF said the £1million support package reflected the 'growing need for year-round support as heatwaves become more frequent'. 

The packs will be sent to people who may struggle to keep their home cool or who are worried about the cost of running cooling devices such as fans.  

According to UK Health Security data, there were 1,311 heat-related deaths in England during the summer of 2024, with the highest mortality rates affecting those aged 75 or over. 

Since 2020 there have been more than 10,000 heat-associated deaths recorded across the UK. 

Older people, babies and young children, people living with cardiovascular or respiratory conditions, disabled people, those taking certain medications and households facing financial hardship are among those most vulnerable during heatwaves, EDF said.

According to UKHSA, hot weather can worsen existing health conditions and increase the risk of serious illness, including heart attacks, strokes and breathing problems. 

EDF said eligible customers will be identified via its customer support teams, referrals from 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.' 

From 1 July to 30 September, the energy price cap for a typical dual-fuel household on direct debit is £1,862 per year, up from £1,641 in the previous quarter. 

Ofgem has also revised the typical usage figures it uses to calculate the headline number, resulting in a second, lower figure of £1,663. 

Both describe the same underlying unit rates, just against different assumptions about how much energy an average home uses.