Leading energy companies have offered free electric blankets to their most vulnerable customers over the last few years, and 2026 will be no different.
Both OVO and Octopus Energy have confirmed that their heated throw schemes will continue to run this winter, alongside a range of other initiatives.
By combining energy-saving tips with free energy-saving products and direct financial support, it is hoped that those most at risk from the burden of rising energy bills will be able to get the help they need.
Octopus Energy's Octo Assist Fund
Octopus Energy has distributed more than 110,000 blankets since the scheme began to those customers whose health puts them at greater risk from the cold. The throws are limited to one per eligible household and to apply for one you need to apply to the main Octo Assist Fund.
Recognising that even more needs to be done this year, an Octopus spokesperson told Homebuilding & Renovating: "For 2026 we also increased our Octo Assist Fund by 50%, providing £60m worth of support to vulnerable customers through standing charge holidays, debt write-offs, and You-Pay-We-Pay payment matching to help customers reduce debt."
In addition to the Octo Assist Fund, Octopus also has its own in-house social worker team to help those who feel at risk.
"Our specialists carry out 400 interactions each month, providing invaluable one-to-one support that goes far beyond energy bills," said the spokesperson. "We also help customers save through our Saving Sessions, which have paid £11m in bill credits to three million participants since 2023. Customers with smart meters are rewarded for using less electricity at peak times, or more when renewable energy is abundant."
OVO Energy's scheme has expanded this year
Tailored to suit individual circumstances, OVO said that this year's Extra Support Package could save some homeowners up to £300 a year on their energy costs.
As with Octopus, the scheme is designed to help those who need it the most and on offer is a host of elements, ranging from free energy-saving appliances and direct financial support, to debt relief, debt advice, and access to support from 2,500 organisations through Lightning Reach.
Since 2022, OVO has provided £220m in support, helping 69,000 customers last year alone with products such as heated blankets, smart plugs, and energy-efficiency kits.
For 2026, the following is available:
- Free energy-saving products: This includes rechargeable hot water bottles, thermos flasks, heat pads, LED light bulbs, smart plugs, and replacement white goods. Heated throws – which cost approximately 3p per hour to run – will also be available.
- Financial support: This includes direct credit top-ups of £150 (in addition to eligible customer’s Warm Home Discount) and extended repayment plans.
- Debt relief and advice: Supporting customers with complex or energy-specific debt.
- Income maximisation: Supporting customers to identify missing benefits and break the fuel poverty cycle.
- Access to Lightning Reach: Partnering with Lightning Reach to give customers access to support from 2,500 organisations offering financial advice.
In-person events will also be held across the UK for homeowners to speak face-to-face with advisors and find out what they can apply for, and how they can reduce their energy costs.
Laura Bradley, Warm Home Discount Lead, OVO said: "We know that this time of year brings immense pressure to households up and down the country. That's why we’re committed to not just offering short-term relief, but delivering deep, targeted support that makes a lasting difference. By bringing our teams directly into the heart of communities, we can help people access the tools, advice and financial support they need to stay warm, safe and in control of their bills this winter."
How to apply to the schemes
To benefit from these schemes, both Octopus Energy and OVO have simple application processes.
For Octopus Energy, you must be a customer and complete an online form on the Octopus Energy website, providing information about your household and financial situation. A team member reviews applications and notifies applicants.
For OVO, you must also be a customer and again, your application is completed on the OVO website. OVO reviews applications to determine what support is available and will get in touch regarding the next steps.
What if I don’t qualify?
If you don’t qualify for either scheme, there are still other ways to get help with rising energy prices this winter.
Government programs like the Winter Fuel Payment, Warm Home Discount, Cold Weather Payments, and the Household Support Fund may provide financial assistance.
You can also buy your own electric blankets, and Octopus Energy encourages those who can afford to buy one to do so. According to the company's research, using one could save you up to 10-20% on your winter energy bills.
Turning down your boiler flow temperature could also help, with Nesta's Money Saving Boiler Challenge encouraging participants to aim for a temperature of 60°C in order to save around £57 a year.
On a separate note, if you need a little extra help with upgrading your home to make it more energy-efficient, there are also other grants available such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme which can provide homeowners with funding towards heat pump installation.
Shop for electric blankets
This electric blanket from Silentnight comes with three heat settings and overheat protection so you can take it to bed without worry. Plus, it's really economical, costing just 1p a night to run.
Choose from three heat settings to help you keep warm as the cooler nights set in. It comes with a two-metre power cord and a two-year guarantee.
This heated throw has an impressive nine temperature settings so you can be comfortable whether you're watching TV downstairs or reading in bed. It comes in two different colour options and a detachable controller for washing.
Tips for using your free electric blanket safely
When using a free electric blanket, it’s best to preheat it for a few minutes before going to bed, then switch to a lower setting to maintain warmth overnight.
Avoid folding the blanket during use, as this can cause uneven heating. Placing the blanket over your body rather than under your mattress helps distribute heat safely and efficiently.
Always plug the blanket directly into a wall socket and avoid overloading extension leads to prevent safety risks.
