Octopus Energy has announced the relaunch of its electric blanket scheme for the upcoming winter, offering 20,000 free electric blankets to its most vulnerable customers.
The initiative, which began in January 2022, aims to help those struggling with rising energy bills and pensioners who have lost access to their Winter Fuel Payments.
Earlier this year, Chancellor Rachel Reeves confirmed that Labour would means-test the energy bill benefit which offers up to £300 in support.
This scheme is open to all Octopus Energy customers through the company's £30million Octo Assist Fund. Priority is given to consumers in particular circumstances, such as those who are medically vulnerable, elderly, or living alone.
Customers concerned about paying their energy bills are encouraged to contact Octopus Energy.
It should be noted that the company will ask a series of questions to identify the most appropriate support for each individual.
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Octopus Energy has offered new incentives to sign up to the firm
OCTOPUS ENERGY | PAThis latest offering builds upon the success of previous distributions, with over 60,000 free electric blankets already provided to those most in need.
The electric blanket scheme has proven highly effective in reducing energy costs for Octopus customers.
Notably, those who received an electric blanket saw their gas bills fall by an average of 20 per cent in previous winters. This significant reduction was achieved with only a minimal 0.2 per cent increase in electricity usage.
The combined effect resulted in an average saving of £150 across the three winter months for participating customers.
By focusing on "heating the human, not the home", as Octopus Energy puts it, the electric blankets offer a cost-effective solution to staying warm.
The company estimates that using an electric blanket can keep a person warm for as little as 3p an hour.
Mario Lupori, the director at Octopus Energy Group, explained: "We know many people are worried about the costs of heating their homes over winter.
"An electric blanket means you heat the human, not the home – staying warm for as little as 3p an hour."
"We've got 20,000 more blankets this year to give out to our most vulnerable customers and we're delighted that they will help them stay warm."
Customers interested in applying for the electric blanket scheme can do so through Octopus Energy's Octo Assist Fund.
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The cost of living crisis has pushed energy bills to new heights in recent years GETTY To access the blankets, customers will need to complete an online questionnaire to assess eligibility and identify the most suitable support for each applicant.
These electric blankets are supplied by Dreamland.
This latest deal from Octopus Energy comes ahead of Ofgem's price cap hike next month.
The average energy bill for a typical household is set to go up by 10 per cent on October 1.