- en
Rotterdam increases energy cost subsidies for low-income households
Rotterdam decided to increase aid provided to low-income households to help them pay rising energy bills. Under Mayor of Rotterdam Ahmed Aboutaleb, the city pointed out in October that households with incomes up to and including 120% of the social minimum are eligible to receive an additional allowance of EUR 500.
City authorities stressed that citizens who already applied for or received the first energy allowance of EUR 800 do not have to apply for the second one, noting that the money will be provided automatically.
Citizens who fall in the category and are applying for the second allowance but did not apply for the first one will receive both, with Rotterdam authorities noting that it is not clear whether eligibility will be expanded to include households with income of up to 140% of the social minimum.
Rotterdam stressed that it wants to provide aid to as many people who are eligible as possible, calling on citizens to tell those who are eligible about the programme. The city is also offering advice to low-income households on ways to save energy, adding that local authorities are financing a project aimed at improving energy efficiency and calling on citizens to apply.
As part of the project, experts visit the homes of applicants and implement energy-saving solutions, with Rotterdam authorities stressing that the city covers the costs.
(Photo credit: Pixabay)
