Section 5: Regulations concerning charges schemes
21.Section 5 adds a new section to the 1991 Act (section 143A) which requires charges schemes for domestic customers to comply with any regulations made by the Secretary of State. Regulations could be used, for instance, to specify that particular tariffs or charging options be made available to consumers.
22.For those requiring special provision, the Secretary of State’s regulations are intended to set out which groups of people are to be given special protection, and how eligibility for this protection should be demonstrated. These groups may include those who need special protection because of their age, health or financial circumstances, or due to disability. As well as prescribing those who should receive special treatment, the regulations will outline the nature of the assistance to be offered.