Octopus Energy has suggested that customers 'eat and drink' themselves warm to reduce heating costs, including making a cup of tea before adjusting the thermostat. The advice, published in a blog post last month, has since been amended after criticism.
The energy provider also recommended wearing multiple layers and using 'couch blankets, onesies or grain heat packs' to stay cosy. The blog, titled 'Winter Workout', aimed to help consumers save money during the energy crisis.
The guidance follows warnings that pensioners are at risk of freezing to death due to soaring fuel prices. Former Cabinet Minister Theresa Villiers described the advice as 'pretty insensitive' given public anxiety over rising bills.
Other energy firms have faced backlash for similar tips. E.ON apologised after sending socks to 30,000 households with advice on keeping warm, while Ovo suggested eating porridge and cuddling pets. The UK faces potential bill increases to £2,400 by October.
