The UK Government has extended its support scheme for households using alternative fuels such as heating oil, LPG and biomass.

Energy Secretary Grant Shapps has granted an extra three months, until June 2022, for applicants to evidence fuel purchases, allowing them to claim the £200 energy bill support they are entitled to until May 2023.

Most alternative fuel users will receive payments automatically, but those needing to apply can now submit up to ten receipts.

The move follows the government’s earlier decision to double the number of receipts that households can use to claim the Alternative Fuel Payment.

Mr Shapps said the move recognised the winter fuel price increases and ensured those who bulk-bought weren’t unfairly penalised.