British Gas, OVO and Octopus Energy support during winter - from £2k grants to free electric blankets

Some of the country’s top energy suppliers are offering a range of new benefits and freebies for their customers to help combat the rising cost of energy after Ofgem’s 10% price cap rise last month. British Gas, OVO and Octopus Energy among others are urging customers to check if they qualify for additional assistance with £120million combined support available.

The support packages form a part of the Government’s warm homes plan with a broader £1billion budget. In total, an estimated £500million is being funnelled into the support packages from energy suppliers across the country for customers and charities who support consumers but what you can get largely depends on your supplier

British Gas

British Gas is reopening its Energy Support Fund which offers grants of up to £2000 to help customers clear outstanding energy debt. This is available to both credit and pre-payment metre accounts.

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The firm is also extending its Individuals and Families Fund to support non-British Gas customers who need debt relief assistance through the British Gas Energy Trust, which provides emergency fuel vouchers.

Jessica Taplin, CEO of the British Gas Energy Trust, told GB News: "This winter is likely to be as challenging as the last, and the British Gas Energy Trust are committed to helping people get back on top of their energy bills before the really cold weather arrives."

Octopus Energy

The Octo Assist Fund has been expanded, offering support to pensioners losing Winter Fuel Payment by providing discretionary £50, £100 or £200 credits to eligible households regardless of whether they claim Pension Credit. Over 60,000 households have also received free electric blankets from the provider, which they note will save an average of £150 per winter.

Additionally, Octopus’ Energy Helpers scheme provides in-person advice to thousands of homes and they also offer thermal imaging camera loans to identify areas of heat loss and inefficiency. Finally, the supplier’s Saving Sessions programme guides customers on saving electricity and money during peak periods.

OVO Energy

OVO’s Extra Support Package launched last month with £50million comprehensive assistance to provide bill reductions, credit top-ups, payment holidays as well as free energy upgrades such as insulation and new boilers. Customers must be able to show they are genuinely in need of assistance, such as having low income, experiencing energy debt or receiving certain benefits.