OVO has announced a winter support package worth £56 million, which includes providing free energy-saving products to customers. These products consist of electric blankets, smart sockets, and home efficiency kits. Additionally, OVO is offering assistance such as free energy upgrades like loft insulation, new boilers, or heat pumps.
Furthermore, OVO is extending financial aid to those facing difficulties, offering services like direct debit reductions, emergency credit top-ups, and extended repayment plans. While the support is available year-round, applications for enhanced winter support will open in October. OVO has already allocated £190 million in support since 2022 and assisted 42,000 customers last year.
David Buttress, the CEO of OVO, emphasized the importance of their support efforts, aiming to collaborate with charity partners and provide substantial customer support. He highlighted the necessity for systemic improvements in the energy sector to ensure equitable access for all individuals through initiatives like a social tariff.
Warm Welcome Campaign Director, David Barclay, expressed the significance of creating safe and comfortable spaces to offer essential support during challenging winter months, praising the close collaboration with OVO. Similarly, Vikki Brownridge, CEO at StepChange debt charity, lauded the ongoing partnership with OVO, emphasizing the critical aid it provides to customers struggling with energy bills and financial challenges during colder seasons.
As energy bills are expected to rise again this winter, with the Ofgem price cap increasing from £1,720 to £1,755 on October 1, OVO’s support becomes even more crucial. Recent OVO polling indicates a high level of concern among people regarding their winter bills, with 91% expressing worry, and 71% feeling more concerned than the previous year.