Octopus Energy is set to launch its largest-ever Zero Bills development, a 300-home community in Wisbech, Cambridgeshire, where residents will pay nothing for household energy for at least five to ten years. Developed in partnership with Prosperity Group, the first phase is scheduled for completion in 2028, with move-ins expected later that year.
How Zero Bills Works
Introduced in 2022, the Zero Bills tariff equips homes with heat pumps, battery storage, and solar panels, eliminating domestic energy costs for five to ten years. EV charging is billed separately. Nigel Banks, Zero Bills director at Octopus Energy, stated: 'We're finding ourselves in yet another energy crisis, and households are looking for ways to protect themselves from unpredictable energy prices. Living without a home energy bill is no longer a distant ambition - it's a reality thanks to our Zero Bills tariff.'
Growing Demand for Green Tech
The announcement follows the Future Homes Standard, which mandates new homes to include heat pumps and solar panels. Octopus Energy reports a 103% surge in heat pump sales, a 78% rise in solar panel sales, and a 42% increase in EV charger enquiries. Over 6,000 Zero Bills homes have been approved across affordable and private rent, as well as private and shared ownership. The company aims to deliver 100,000 Zero Bills homes by 2030, expanding to Germany, France, New Zealand, and the UK.
Commuter Belt Developments
Existing Zero Bills developments near London include Hope Green in Stanford-le-Hope, Essex; Carpenter's Yard in Epping Forest, Essex; and Templegate in Burgess Hill, West Sussex. Joe Billingham, chairman of Prosperity Group, said: 'Our focus has always been on delivering high-quality, forward-thinking developments. Working with Octopus Energy allows us to integrate cutting-edge technology that enhances living experience and supports long-term investment performance.' He added that such schemes future-proof assets against tightening EPC standards.
