Octopus Energy has confirmed it is once again distributing free electric blankets to customers in need. The company updated details of the initiative on October 20, saying it exists "to support customers most in need, particularly people with really specific vulnerabilities and medical needs". The firm said it would be "prioritising those customers" and encouraged anyone able to purchase their own blanket to do so.
How the scheme works
According to its research, the blankets typically cost around £50 but could save an average household approximately £300 when compared to running the heating continuously. Octopus explained: "One of our boffins realised that some customers were paying to heat their entire homes, even if they lived alone. He did some calculations and found out that where heating a whole home cost about £4 a day, an energy-efficient electric blanket could heat a person for just 2-4p an hour."
The firm stressed that contemporary electric blankets, when used in line with manufacturer guidelines, are "safe and energy efficient". Octopus leverages its buying power to purchase tens of thousands of blankets and distribute them free of charge to customers identified as those who would "benefit most when they fill in our financial assistance tool". As of August 2026, the company said it had distributed more than 110,000.
Who qualifies
Octopus said: "We need to prioritise customers who'll benefit most: the elderly and those with mobility issues or other medical conditions that mean they're more impacted by the cold. These blankets start at around £40 and can save you £300 or more, so they're really worth the investment. If you can consider buying one yourself, please do – there might be someone else out there who truly can't afford to buy one. We are offering electric blankets to the most vulnerable homes. It is one electric blanket per household; this is so we can help as many people as possible."
How to apply
The initial step is to submit an application to the Octo Assist fund. The applicant's account and details provided will be reviewed, with a decision expected within approximately one week. Octopus advised using the blanket as a throw draped over your body to maintain warmth, instead of positioning it as a mattress topper. It recommended heating the blanket on the highest setting for several minutes before reducing it to a medium setting for extended periods.
Users should avoid folding the blanket, as this could compromise its heating capabilities. The connector should be positioned at the feet and kept clear to prevent overheating. Children must not be left unsupervised while using the blanket, and the blankets are not suitable for children under five years of age. Octopus also directed people towards the London Fire Brigade guidance on blanket safety, noting that to avoid mould growth, it's advised to maintain home temperatures above 15 degrees Celsius.
