Octopus Energy Tests Zero Bills Tariff in Retrofitted Homes

Octopus Energy is testing its Zero Bills tariff in older, retrofitted homes to determine if a model previously reserved for new-builds can be scaled to existing housing. As part of a project to examine energy efficiency funding, Santander retrofitted a 1980s home in Milton Keynes for free, installing a heat pump, 17 solar panels, and a large battery.

Under the tariff, the homeowner is guaranteed no bills for heating and lighting for five years, provided they remove all gas appliances and remain within a fair usage limit. The home operates as a mini-power station, feeding excess energy back to the grid to generate revenue for the energy supplier.

Santander is currently developing financing options to help other homeowners afford similar retrofitting projects, which can cost nearly £20,000 even after government grants. The bank is exploring how to leverage its large mortgage portfolio to help the country move toward net zero goals.