Major energy suppliers across the UK are stepping up this winter to support vulnerable customers grappling with soaring energy bills. With the approach of Christmas, these firms are offering free electric blankets and other energy-saving gadgets as part of their effort to alleviate financial pressures on struggling households.
Energy companies including Octopus Energy, OVO Energy, and EDF Energy have launched various support schemes aimed at helping those most affected by the cost-of-living crisis. These initiatives are particularly targeted at elderly residents, individuals with medical needs, and those living alone, providing much-needed relief during the coldest months of the year.
Octopus Energy is at the forefront of this initiative, pledging to give away 20,000 electric blankets this winter. These blankets, typically retailing at around £69.99, can save households approximately £300 annually on heating costs, according to company analysis. "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 per hour," said Mario Lupori, director at Octopus Energy Group. The firm states the blankets are especially beneficial for those who are medically vulnerable or spend long periods sitting still.
The Octopus initiative is not unique; OVO Energy has introduced its own £50 million support package aimed at residents who may struggle with energy expenses. "If you think you’ll struggle to pay your bills and you’re an OVO customer, then you might be eligible," said a spokesperson for OVO Energy. They are offering grants, electric throws, and mattress toppers to eligible customers based on individual circumstances.
EDF Energy has also joined the fray with its Customer Support Fund, which includes options for free energy-saving gadgets such as air fryers, kettles, and slow cookers. The energy supplier has committed £29 million to these programs, which are intended to help customers improve their financial stability during these trying times. An EDF Energy spokesperson remarked, "We understand how difficult this time is for our customers, and we're here to support them by offering more direct financial assistance, as well as insulating more homes, which will help customers bring their energy bills down."
These energy-saving appliances are proving to be not only lifesavers but also cost-effective. Analysis reveals electric blankets are roughly 60 times cheaper to run than traditional central heating systems. This is particularly beneficial for individuals living alone or those with limited mobility who may not need to heat up large areas of their home.
The application process for these support packages has been made straightforward by each energy company. Customers need to fill out quick online forms detailing their financial situations to see what assistance they might qualify for. This kind of direct intervention aims to prioritize those customers who need it most, ensuring the most vulnerable receive timely help.
Other support avenues are also available to customers who may not qualify for direct offerings from energy firms. Local authority schemes like the Household Support Fund provide additional help, allowing households to access energy-saving gadgets, food vouchers, and other assistance to combat fuel poverty. Charities such as Citizens Advice are also actively engaged, employing part of the Cadent Foundation’s £2 million Emergency Support Fund to distribute these resources.
The boost provided by energy firms is especially timely, as consumers face increasing costs for home heating and electricity. Social welfare advocates agree such interventions are not only beneficial but necessary during the winter months, when people are most vulnerable to rising energy costs.
With temperatures dropping, the urgency for assistance has only grown. By providing free electric blankets and other energy-efficient devices, energy suppliers are taking significant steps to help alleviate some of the financial pressures their customers are experiencing.
Anyone interested should not hesitate to reach out to their energy supplier for more information about available assistance. Every little bit helps during this challenging time as many work to make their budgets stretch through the cold season.