In a proactive bid to alleviate the financial burden of soaring energy costs, Octopus Energy has announced a festive initiative to provide 10,000 free electric blankets to vulnerable customers. This move, designed to help households save on heating expenses, could result in annual savings of £300 for some recipients, according to the company.
Cost-Effective Comfort: The Advantages of Electric Blankets for Targeted Heating
The electric blankets, which use efficient heating elements to provide warmth, offer a practical alternative to heating an entire home. A spokesperson for Octopus Energy highlighted the stark difference in costs:
“Heating a whole home costs around £4 a day, whereas an energy-efficient electric blanket can heat a person for just 2p-4p an hour.”
The spokesperson further emphasised the benefits for specific groups: “This is a vastly more cost-effective way to stay warm, particularly for individuals with mobility issues, those who spend extended periods in one place, or people with medical conditions that make them more sensitive to the cold.”
Estimated Daily Costs Comparison
| Heating Method | Cost Per Day | Cost Per Hour |
|---|---|---|
| Heating an Entire Home | £4.00 | ~£0.17 |
| Using an Electric Blanket | £0.24 – £0.48 | £0.02 – £0.04 |
This comparison underscores the significant savings electric blankets can offer, especially for those seeking to minimise energy use during colder months.
How Electric Blankets Can Reduce Winter Energy Costs
Octopus Energy’s analysis demonstrates the tangible impact of electric blankets for customers. “Customers who used electric blankets saved an average of 10-20% on their energy bills during the winter months,” the company stated. Over a year, these savings can amount to £300, making the investment in an electric blanket a sound financial decision for many households.
The company is also urging customers who can afford to do so to consider purchasing their own blanket, which typically costs around £60.
Providing Free Electric Blankets to Those Most Affected by Cold
The 10,000 free electric blankets are intended for elderly customers and those with mobility or medical issues, who are particularly affected by the cold. Octopus Energy has pledged to prioritise these groups through its Octo Assist scheme.
“While everyone is feeling the pinch of rising energy bills, some are struggling far more than others,” the company said. “We want to ensure the blankets reach those who need them the most, including individuals with specific vulnerabilities or medical needs.”
To determine eligibility, applicants will need to complete a Paylink budget assessment. Customers struggling with bills are encouraged to reach out to Octopus Energy for additional support, as the company offers a variety of assistance options.
Practical Solutions: Investing in Electric Blankets for Winter Savings
For those who do not qualify for a free blanket, Octopus Energy continues to recommend purchasing one independently. Research shows that using an electric blanket instead of central heating could save households a significant amount over the course of a year.
Steps to Save with an Electric Blanket:
- Purchase a high-quality electric blanket (costs approximately £60).
- Use the blanket instead of heating your entire home when stationary.
- Monitor the savings on your energy bills – up to £300 annually.
“Electric blankets are a simple, cost-effective solution to staying warm this winter,” the spokesperson added. “For many, they can make a substantial difference.”
Octopus Energy’s Support for Vulnerable Households During the Energy Crisis
This initiative reflects Octopus Energy’s commitment to supporting customers through the challenges posed by the current energy crisis. By providing innovative, energy-saving solutions, the company aims to help the most vulnerable households remain warm and safe during the colder months.
For further information or to apply for assistance, customers are encouraged to visit the company’s website or contact Octopus Energy directly.
