Octopus Energy is again offering free electric blankets to its most vulnerable customers, including older people and those with mobility problems or medical conditions made worse by the cold.
The supplier says the blankets typically cost around £50 and could save households up to £300 a year compared with heating the whole home. It has distributed more than 110,000 so far.
Why the scheme was launched
Octopus explained: "One of our boffins realised that some customers were paying to heat their entire homes, even if they lived alone." An electric blanket can heat a person for just 2–4p an hour, compared with around £4 a day to heat an entire home.
How to apply and eligibility
Customers should apply through the Octo Assist fund, with a decision expected within about a week. The scheme is limited to one blanket per household and prioritises those who cannot afford to buy one themselves.
Octopus recommends using the blanket as a throw rather than a mattress topper, keeping the connector clear, and notes that the blankets are not suitable for children under five.
