UK energy firm giving customers free fridges and dishwashers

Billpayers at one firm with over 47 million customers could be in line for a free fridge as E.ON Next's Energy Fund aims to support those struggling financially. The fund, set up by the energy giant, offers two key features: grants to help customers pay their energy bills and replacement of a wide variety of appliances.

The latter is primarily designed to replace appliances that have either broken down or are in poor condition. E.ON's fund can provide support for customers who pay for either gas or electricity. The company states that the replacement appliances provided through the scheme should be more energy-efficient, potentially saving you money on your bills in the long run.

Who is eligible for the extra support?

To receive a replacement appliance through the fund, applicants must already be customers with E.ON Next or Sainsbury's Energy. According to Charis, who manages the E.ON Next Energy Fund, eligibility criteria are based on a combination of an applicant's financial situation and health-related circumstances.

If you're applying for help with paying your electricity and gas bills, you'll need to pass a three-month Provisional Award Scheme and demonstrate that you can cover your average monthly energy use. During the Provisional Award Scheme, E.ON will suspend any debt you may have.

If all payments have been made throughout the period, E.ON will settle the debt in full. However, if you don't keep up with the payments, the award scheme will be withdrawn, and the debt, including any further debt built up during the award period, will remain in place and need to be paid.

How to apply for the fund

E.ON advises that you seek financial advice before submitting an application. This is to allow you the opportunity to negotiate with any other creditors you may need to, as well as ensure you're receiving all the benefits and extra income you could be eligible for.

You may also be asked to provide the following evidence to E.ON while they consider your application to determine your eligibility:

• Proof of any illness someone in your household has been diagnosed with by a doctor or medical professional - this can include a letter, summary, or certificate from a doctor, medical professional or health worker

• Proof of any benefits or tax credits any adult in your household may be receiving

E.ON highlights that all supporting evidence should be less than three months old. The only exception to this is annual benefit letters from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

All supporting documents should also clearly show your name and address. You can make an application for the E.ON Next Energy Fund online here.