As colder weather arrives and heating systems across Britain are switched back on, millions of households are looking for ways to cut energy costs. While Ofgem’s latest energy price cap increase adds another strain to budgets, several free and government-backed schemes are offering real help this winter — from electric blankets to free boilers and solar panels.
Energy experts at Free Price Compare say many people are unaware of how much free assistance is already available. Knowing what’s on offer and how to apply could save hundreds of pounds in the coming months.
Energy Bills on the Rise Again
From 1 October 2025, Ofgem’s energy price cap increased by 2 per cent to £1,755 a year for a typical dual-fuel household. The rise adds roughly £35 a year to average bills. Although smaller than previous surges, it comes after two years of record-high prices that have left many families in debt.
The price cap affects around 34 million homes on standard variable or dual fuel tariffs, meaning most households will see the change directly in their bills. A further 20 million on fixed deals remain protected until their contract ends.
Shay Ramani, energy expert and founder of Free Price Compare, said:
“Even a small rise matters when families are already stretched. The good news is there’s now a wide range of free energy support and gadgets available — from insulation upgrades to electric blankets — but many people still don’t know these schemes exist. The first step is checking eligibility and then reviewing your tariff to make sure you’re not overpaying.”
Free Electric Blankets and Smart Gadgets
Several energy suppliers are helping customers stay warm through the winter by giving away electric blankets and energy-saving devices.
- Octopus Energy has distributed more than 50,000 free electric blankets since 2022 and continues to prioritise vulnerable customers with medical needs. The blankets are provided free of charge and can cost up to 15 times less to run than switching on central heating.
- OVO Energy is also offering free electric blankets and smart sockets, which automatically cut power to devices left on standby.
- E.ON Next has reintroduced its winter hardship scheme, providing free energy-efficient appliances to customers struggling with bills.
Ramani explained:
“Running a modern electric blanket for one hour costs roughly 3 to 4 pence, compared with 60 to 80 pence for an hour of central heating. For someone at home all day, it’s an effective way to keep warm without wasting energy heating empty rooms.”
Households can apply directly through their supplier’s hardship or energy-efficiency fund page.
Free Boiler Upgrades Through the ECO Scheme
Thousands of low-income households qualify for a free boiler replacement or insulation upgrade under the Government’s ECO4 scheme.
To be eligible, you must own or privately rent your home and receive one of the following benefits:
- Income Support
- Jobseeker’s Allowance (income-based)
- Employment and Support Allowance (income-related)
- Pension Credit
- Universal Credit
- Child Benefit (subject to income limits)
- Disability Living Allowance or Personal Independence Payment
If approved, the scheme covers the full cost of fitting a new A-rated boiler or home insulation. Applications are handled by accredited installers or through your local council.
Ramani added:
“Old or inefficient boilers can account for 60 per cent of total household energy use. Replacing one through the ECO4 scheme could save up to £400 a year, and for eligible families it’s completely free.”
Free Solar Panels and Heat Pumps
Low-income households may also qualify for free or heavily subsidised solar panels, heat pumps and insulation under local authority initiatives. Councils across England, Scotland and Wales are using Government funding to improve home energy efficiency for properties with Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) ratings of D or below.
Most schemes target households earning under £31,000 a year or those receiving benefits such as Universal Credit or Pension Credit.
Ramani said:
“Some local authorities are offering grants worth up to £10,000 for low-carbon upgrades. It’s part of the Government’s push to help households lower bills and cut emissions simultaneously. Checking with your local council or energy supplier is the fastest way to see what’s available.”
Free Shower Heads and Water-Saving Gadgets
Several water companies are giving away free water-saving devices that can also lower gas and electricity usage.
- Severn Trent Water and Southern Water both offer free shower heads and timers worth around £20. These gadgets regulate flow, reducing hot-water use by up to 30 per cent.
- Customers can request the products via the Save Water Save Money website or through their water provider’s efficiency programme.
Reducing hot-water consumption not only saves on water bills but also cuts the energy used to heat that water.
Warm Home Discount and Winter Fuel Payments
Two long-standing Government schemes continue to provide financial help for millions this winter:
- Warm Home Discount: A one-off £150 bill credit automatically applied to eligible households on low incomes or pension benefits.
- Winter Fuel Payment: Worth between £100 and £300, paid automatically to most pensioners in November or December.
Combined, these schemes help reduce energy costs for more than 10 million households each year.
Cold Weather Payments
When the temperature falls to zero degrees Celsius or below for seven consecutive days, eligible households receive an automatic £25 payment from the Department for Work and Pensions. The support applies to people on Universal Credit, Pension Credit or similar means-tested benefits.
Payments are made automatically within 14 days and do not need to be applied for.
Household Support Fund
Councils across the UK are also distributing funding through the £742 million Household Support Fund. The money is typically offered as supermarket vouchers, energy top-ups, or emergency grants for low-income residents.
Eligibility varies by region, but households on benefits or with limited income are prioritised. In some areas, pensioners can claim up to £300 directly from their local council to help with winter costs.
How to Cut Bills Beyond Freebies
While the free gadgets and grants can make a big difference, households can still benefit by reviewing their tariff. Many suppliers now offer cheaper fixed deals below the October price cap.
Ramani explained:
“Price caps protect customers on standard rates, but they’re not always the best value. By taking five minutes to compare energy prices, you can often find fixed or dual fuel tariffs that cost less over the year. Don’t assume your supplier is the cheapest — even small savings each month can add up over winter.”
Households that use both gas and electricity can save further by reviewing their dual fuel tariffs, which often come with discounted standing charges or combined billing options.
Free Price Compare provides postcode-based searches showing all major suppliers in your area, including fixed, variable and renewable tariffs. The service is free to use and completely independent.
Simple Energy-Saving Habits That Work
In addition to free schemes and tariff switching, experts recommend simple changes to improve efficiency at home:
- Turn the thermostat down by one degree — saves around 4 per cent on annual bills.
- Use smart plugs to cut power to standby devices.
- Install radiator reflector panels behind external-wall radiators.
- Close curtains at dusk to trap heat.
- Set heating timers so radiators only run when needed.
Ramani concluded:
“Government help and supplier schemes are there to be used, but the biggest savings still come from awareness. Take advantage of what’s free, make your home more efficient, and review your tariff before the deeper cold sets in. Combining those actions can make a serious difference to your winter bills.”
