Nearly 10 million pensioners are set to lose their Winter Fuel Payments this year, but an expert has explained a way those affected can save on heating and cut costs, especially without the extra support.
With energy bills continuing to rise, electric blankets and heated throws offer a cost-effective solution for those affected by the cuts.
The Chancellor, Rachel Reeves announced that Winter Fuel Payments will now be limited to people over state pension age who receive Pension Credit or specific benefits, including Income Support and Universal Credit.
Major energy suppliers are stepping in to help, with both Octopus Energy and OVO Energy offering free electric blankets and heated throws to their most vulnerable customers.
These energy-saving devices could provide crucial warmth at a fraction of the cost of central heating this winter. The cost difference between electric blankets and central heating can make all the difference, according to an analysis from Opera Beds.
Running an electric blanket costs just 2.5p per hour during winter 2024, based on Ofgem's electricity rate of 24.5p per kWh.
Electric blankets are roughly 60 times cheaper than using central heating
GETTYFor eight hours of overnight use, this amounts to approximately 20p - the same cost applies to using a heated throw during the day. In contrast, with gas prices at 6.24p per kWh, an average 24kWh boiler costs around £1.50 per hour to run.
This makes electric blankets roughly 60 times cheaper than using central heating.
In a bid to help vulnerable people "heat the person, not the home", Octopus Energy has pledged to give away 20,000 electric blankets this year. They will focus on customers with specific vulnerabilities and medical needs.
The scheme, running since 2022, has helped customers save around £300 annually on heating bills.
Mario Lupori, director at Octopus Energy Group, said: "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."
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To apply, customers need to create a Paylink budget to assess their eligibility. Applications are reviewed within approximately one week, with one blanket available per household.
OVO Energy is also offering support through its £50million Extra Support Package, which includes free electric throws and mattress toppers. The scheme opened on 1 October and is available to both OVO and Boost customers.
Applications take around five minutes to complete, with households limited to one application each. To apply, customers need to provide their monthly disposable income after tax and essential bills. Up-to-date meter readings may also be required during the application process.
Customers can apply for the Customer Support Package through OVO's online portal. The package includes additional support measures such as payment holidays for those in debt on prepayment meters, emergency credit top-ups and extra assistance for pensioners.
Chelsea Brown, Lead Product Advisor at Opera Beds, explained that a heated throw is designed to provide warmth and comfort while you're sitting or lounging. "It's typically used while watching TV, reading, or relaxing on a sofa," she added.
Electric blankets, meanwhile, are specifically designed for bed use, placed either over or under sheets. Both options come with multiple heat settings, timers, and safety features like auto shut-off.
While having both isn't necessary, Brown notes that some people choose this for added flexibility, as both are more cost-efficient than central heating.
However, she warns against sleeping on heated throws, as they lack the same safety features as electric blankets.
Pensioners affected by winter fuel payment cuts are urged to contact their energy providers promptly to explore support options.
Those with Octopus Energy should start by creating a Paylink budget through the OctoAssist £30million customer help fund. OVO customers can complete their five-minute application through the Customer Support Package online portal.
Both schemes offer vital assistance beyond electric blankets, including grants towards energy bills and additional support for pensioners.
With average annual energy bills rising by £149 to £1,717, these free heating solutions could provide significant savings. Customers are encouraged to have their meter readings and income details ready when applying for support.
