Energy Company Gives Free Electric Blankets to Customers – How to Apply | Personal Finance | Finance

As the UK braces for colder temperatures and the arrival of winter, many are worried about how they will be able to stay warm with rising energy bills. However, the solution may come in the form of energy-efficient gifts, including heated blankets and mattress toppers.

According to The Sun, Ovo Energy is offering these products to households as part of a £50 million support package. The package, launched in early October, also includes prepayment meter payment holidays and direct financial assistance.

To apply, visit the OVO website.

OVO says applying takes about two minutes, but you should have some information on hand, including:

• Your monthly disposable income (this is any income after taxes, rent or mortgage payments, and essentials such as utility bills)
• Your account number and zip code
• You may also have to include how many people live in your home, what your main heating type is, and how you pay for energy.
• You may also have to indicate whether you have previously qualified for the Warm Home discount or whether you are on means-tested benefits.
• You can apply on behalf of yourself or others, such as a family member who does not have internet access.

If you’re not an OVO customer, other energy providers such as Octopus Energy also offer support such as free electric blankets through their £30 million Octopus Assist fund.

The energy company provides these money-saving devices to the most vulnerable people in the population, meaning those most likely to receive help are the elderly and people with mobility problems or other medical conditions. To find out if you are eligible for support, please contact Octopus.

Benefitted households can get help by applying for free and low-cost boilers under the Energy Company Obligation (ECO). This is offered on a case-by-case basis, but could mean installing a new boiler or installing loft or cavity wall insulation, often free of charge, reports the Mirror.

A number of energy companies have joined the scheme, including British Gas and EDF. Additionally, some energy companies have grant schemes available to customers struggling to cover their bills.

Eligibility criteria vary depending on the supplier, and the amount you can receive depends on your financial situation – for example, British Gas customers who are struggling to pay their energy bills can receive grants worth up to £2,000.