Energy company will install heat pumps and solar panels for free: who will benefit.

According to The Sun: Recipients of assistance can receive free devices that will help reduce their energy bills.

Octopus Energy offers free installation of solar panels and heat pumps in 1,000 households.

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Octopus Energy has stated that it will install heat pumps and solar panels for free in a number of households.

As part of the Energy Company Obligation (ECO) program, energy suppliers are required to assist low-income families in heating their homes. This includes reducing energy consumption through measures like installing insulation or upgrading heating systems.

This decision comes amid rising energy bills for millions of households, which have increased by 2% to £1,755 this autumn. The new price cap, approved by the regulator Ofgem, takes effect on October 1.

The average household consuming a standard amount of energy will pay £35.14 more per year.

Octopus states that by switching to a heat pump, an average household could save up to £369 a year. Households with high usage could save up to £496 a year.

However, installing a heat pump costs around £4,400, making it unaffordable for many low-income households.

Solar panels can significantly reduce bills by an estimated £190 to £350, according to the Energy Research Service.

But their average cost is £6,100, which makes initial expenses a substantial barrier for many families.

If you receive free installation of both a heat pump and solar panels, it can save you £10,500 in initial costs.

Moreover, you could also save up to £846 a year.

Assistance from Octopus can be received by those who:

• Receive government support such as Universal Credit or Pension Credit
• Live in a house built between 1980-2022
• Have an energy performance certificate (EPC) rating of E or below

Being a customer of Octopus is not a prerequisite for receiving this help.

What other support does Octopus offer?

The energy supplier also provides £1 million in monthly assistance through the Octo Assist Fund.

This includes support for low-income households:

• Energy bill credits – direct financial assistance for households in crisis, often within 48 hours
• Deferred payment for standing charges – up to six months without standing charges for vulnerable customers
• Debt repayment and collaboration plans
• Free tools such as thermal loss cameras and electric blankets
• Energy flexibility schemes, such as Free Electricity and Saving Sessions – £10.5 million already paid out

People with bill issues are encouraged to seek assistance.

Rebecca Dibbs-Simkin, Chief Product Officer of Octopus Energy, said: “We know this winter will be challenging, with high bills. Octopus is ramping up our support and urging people to help friends and family take advantage of the opportunity to upgrade their homes under the ECO program - we are committed to upgrading 1,000 households completely free of charge.”

More support for energy bills

If you are facing difficulties paying energy bills, there are several ways to receive support.

For instance, the Winter Fuel Payment offers £300 to pensioners to cover heating expenses during the cold months.

About 75% of pensioners are expected to receive this support this year.

Additionally, families experiencing financial difficulties can receive money for their energy bills through the Household Support Fund (HSF).

Each council in England has a portion of a £742 million fund they can use to help residents in need of support.

The amount you can receive depends on your council and circumstances.

Additionally, thousands of households will receive a £150 discount on insulation services.

This monetary grant is intended for low-income households or those receiving certain types of assistance.

If you are facing delays in paying your energy bill, there are options to get assistance from your energy supplier.

British Gas has a £140 million support fund to assist customers facing financial difficulties.

This includes free energy grants, individual support for households and small businesses, as well as funding for advice centers and charities.

There is also a 'You Pay: We Pay' program, which allows households to receive co-funding from British Gas over six months.

In the context of rising energy costs and the energy crisis, initiatives by companies like Octopus Energy are crucial for providing support to vulnerable households. Free solar panel and heat pump installation programs can significantly ease the financial burden and help transition to more sustainable energy sources. Meanwhile, additional support from various funds and programs can help many families find a way out of difficult situations.