Some households might be eligible for extra help to keep their homes warm this winter (Image: GETTY)
Some of the UK’s leading energy suppliers are offering new benefits and giveaways to help tackle the increasing cost of energy following Ofgem’s 10% price cap rise last month.
British Gas, OVO and Octopus Energy, among others, are urging customers to see if they qualify for extra help, with a combined £120million in support available. These support packages form part of the Government’s warm homes plan, which has a wider budget of £1billion.
In total, an estimated £500million is being channelled into support packages from energy suppliers nationwide for customers and charities that assist consumers, but what you can receive largely depends on your supplier.
British Gas is reopening its Energy Support Fund, which offers grants of up to £2,000 to help customers clear outstanding energy debt.
This is available to both credit and pre-payment metre accounts. The company is also extending its Individuals and Families Fund to aid non-British Gas customers who need debt relief assistance through the British Gas Energy Trust, which provides emergency fuel vouchers.
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Jessica Taplin, CEO of the British Gas Energy Trust, spoke to about the impending cold season: “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.”
Meanwhile, Octopus Energy has ramped up its support for those in need.
The Octo Assist Fund now offers discretionary credits of £50, £100 or £200 to eligible households, including pensioners affected by the loss of , regardless of whether they receive Pension Credit.
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Over 60,000 households have benefited from free electric blankets provided by Octopus, which are touted to save an average of £150 each winter.
Additionally, the company’s Energy Helpers scheme delivers face-to-face advice to thousands, while also lending out thermal imaging cameras to help detect heat loss.
Their Saving Sessions initiative educates customers on how to cut electricity costs during peak times.
OVO Energy isn’t far behind with their Extra Support Package, launched last month, featuring a £50million fund aimed at offering bill reductions, credit top-ups, payment holidays, and even free energy upgrades like insulation and new boilers to customers who can demonstrate genuine need, such as those on low incomes, in energy debt, or receiving certain benefits.