With a slight rise in electricity and gas rates, the new price cap underscores the need for innovative approaches to manage energy expenses. Heated throws, which provide targeted warmth, offer a practical alternative to heating entire homes—making them a lifeline for many during this challenging time.
Energy : The January Price Cap and Its Impact on Bills
From January 2024, the Ofgem price cap will rise from £1,717 to £1,739 per year for a typical dual-fuel household. This adjustment reflects an increase in electricity rates from 24.5p/kWh to 24.86p/kWh and in gas rates from 6.24p/kWh to 6.34p/kWh. Although these changes appear marginal, they follow a series of previous hikes, cumulatively increasing the financial burden on UK households.
Standing charges will see minor adjustments, dropping slightly from 60.99p to 60.97p/day for electricity and from 31.66p to 31.65p/day for gas. However, as winter tightens its grip, even small increases can have a disproportionate impact on households already grappling with high expenses.
With gas central heating costing an average of £4.25 per day to heat a home, many are exploring cost-saving strategies to mitigate the impact. This is where heated throws come in as a viable alternative for reducing costs while maintaining comfort.
| Energy Source | Cost per kWh | Standing Charge (Daily) | Typical Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gas (current) | 6.24p | 31.66p | £1,717 |
| Gas (January 2024 cap) | 6.34p | 31.65p | £1,739 |
| Electricity (current) | 24.5p | 60.99p | £1,717 |
| Electricity (January 2024 cap) | 24.86p | 60.97p | £1,739 |
Why Heated Throws Are a Smarter Way to Save
Heated throws offer an energy-efficient alternative to heating entire homes, providing targeted warmth where it’s needed most. These throws consume 0.1kWh/hour, costing just 2.5p per hour under the new price cap. In comparison, heating a home with gas central heating averages 67kWh/day, translating to a daily cost of £4.25.
In trials conducted by Octopus Energy, customers using heated throws saw bill reductions of 10–20%, translating to potential annual savings of up to £347. For those spending significant time in one spot—whether watching TV, reading, or sleeping—heated throws are a practical solution. Modern versions come equipped with safety features and energy-saving settings, making them a reliable and cost-effective choice.
While Octopus Energy has distributed free heated throws to vulnerable households, they also recommend purchasing them independently. Priced from £40, they offer an affordable and sustainable way to combat rising energy bills.
Switching to a heated throw is more than just a cost-saving measure; it represents a step toward smarter energy usage during a time of growing financial and environmental pressures.
