London:British Chancellor of the Exchequer John Healey has unveiled a series of measures aimed at reducing household energy costs as part of the 2026 Budget. These steps are designed to alleviate the financial burden on families amid rising living costs.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the government plans to implement a 2.6 billion-pound scheme, equivalent to approximately 3.5 billion U.S. dollars, to ease energy expenses for families this winter. Eligible households will receive a direct payment of 100 pounds, or about 133 dollars, into their bank accounts. This initiative targets 20 million qualified households, as detailed in Healey's budget statement delivered in the House of Commons.

In addition to the financial support, the Chancellor announced a continuation of the value-added-tax cut on electricity bills, extending it until July 2027. This move is aimed at providing sustained relief to consumers on their utility expenses.

Furthermore, earlier on Wednesday, Healey announced the abolition of standing charges on household gas bills. These charges, a fixed daily fee added irrespective of gas usage, will now be transferred to the unit rate. This change is expected to benefit approximately 60 percent of account-holding households, potentially saving them an average of 45 pounds, or about 60 dollars, annually.