Eligibility criteria as Octopus Energy free electric blanket scheme confirmed for 2026

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Customers will be assessed on need(Image: ugurhan via Getty Images)

Octopus Energy is once again offering free electric blankets to customers most in need, including older people and those with mobility problems or medical conditions affected by the cold.
The supplier says the blankets typically cost around £50 and could save households up to £300 a year compared with heating the whole home — it has distributed more than 110,000 so far.
Octopus explained: “One of our boffins realised that some customers were paying to heat their entire homes, even if they lived alone,” adding that an electric blanket could heat a person for just 2–4p an hour compared with around £4 a day to heat an entire home.
Customers should apply through the Octo Assist fund, with a decision expected within about a week — the scheme is limited to one blanket per household, and prioritises those who cannot afford to buy one themselves.
Octopus recommends using the blanket as a throw rather than a mattress topper, keeping the connector clear, and notes that the blankets are not suitable for children under five.