Millions of residents in social housing could see a significant drop in their energy bills, thanks to a new initiative from Octopus Energy. The company has announced the launch of Tenant Power, a tariff specifically designed for social housing tenants, with fixed discounts of up to £200 per year.
The scheme, developed in partnership with Together Housing Group, addresses the long-standing issue of limited access to energy-saving upgrades in council homes. The initiative aims to reduce fuel poverty while promoting low-carbon energy use across communities.
Fixed Discounts Through Smart Green Technology
Tenant Power is described by Octopus as Britain’s first smart energy tariff tailored for social housing, offering a practical and cost-effective solution for both tenants and landlords. According to GB News, the tariff provides year-round discounts on electricity bills, regardless of seasonal changes, giving residents some stability in an otherwise volatile energy market.
At the heart of the scheme is a shared benefit model. Homes are fitted with solar panels and battery storage, which allow tenants to generate and use their own renewable electricity. Excess power not used on site is automatically sold back to the national grid during periods of high demand. As Octopus Energy explains, the technology is installed and funded by the landlords, while the energy company manages the smart controls that determine when electricity is stored or redistributed.
Nigel Banks, Zero Bills Director at Octopus Energy, told GB News: “We can effectively sell the excess energy back to the grid, enabling us to pay the landlord a return for the tech, as well as deliver the savings for the tenant.” He added that the scheme was the “UK’s only practical solution that ensures both tenants and landlords share in the benefits of low-carbon technology.”
The fixed discount element of the tariff is a key feature. It shields tenants from seasonal price hikes, particularly during winter months, when electricity demand is typically higher.
Tackling Fuel Poverty With Local Partnerships
The first phase of the rollout includes 1,500 homes managed by Together Housing Group, with some tenants already seeing savings. The northern England-based housing association provides homes across West Yorkshire, where the local authority has also supported the initiative. According to Octopus Energy, the West Yorkshire Combined Authority has contributed more than £3 million to expand renewable energy access in the region.
Patrick Berry, Executive Director of Property at Together Housing Group, said: “We are committed to improving the lives of our residents and strengthening the communities we serve.” That sentiment is echoed by Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, who noted the dual benefit of warmer homes and reduced costs, adding that the scheme creates “a fairer, greener region.”
Octopus has confirmed that the scheme is designed to be easily replicated. According to the company, housing associations across England manage close to three million social properties, highlighting the potential scale of the programme. For tenants, signing up involves coordination with their landlord, who must install compatible solar panels, battery systems, and smart meters to activate the tariff.
Richard, a customer from Halifax already enrolled in Tenant Power, shared with GB News that the process was “quick and easy”, and noted that he was pleased not just with the savings, but with contributing to a greener energy future. Tenant Power represents a shift in how social housing can benefit from the energy transition. With the combined incentives of reduced bills for tenants and returns for landlords, it offers a model that could shape energy delivery in the sector for years to come.
