There are some simple things you can do that can make a big
difference to the amount you pay for the energy you use. By taking
positive action to reduce your energy bills you will also help the
environment by reducing your carbon footprint.
Take action now:
- Switch off lights you don’t need
- Switch off electrical appliances at the mains - leaving
them on stand-by uses electricity
- Turn down your heating thermostat by a few degrees. Even a 1°C
reduction could cut your bills by up to 10 per cent, typically
saving around £55 per year
- Fill up your washing machine, tumble dryer or dishwasher: one
full load uses less energy than two half loads
- Don’t heat empty rooms
- Insulate your home. Find out about grants that can help
(see below)
- Use energy saving light bulbs
- Review your energy supplier. Consider switching - the
energy market is very competitive and you can often get a better
deal by shopping around
- Switch to Direct Debits. Many energy companies offer discounts
to customers who agree to pay this way
- Another way to cut down on your costs is with paperless
billing. Again, many suppliers offer discounts if you agree to
this. Instead of receiving bills in the post, you'll get emails
from your energy supplier and can manage your account and submit
meter readings online. This also cuts out the paper needed to send
out and pay bills by post
- Trouble paying your energy bills? Check with your supplier to
find out what help is available from them.
Grant schemes
There are a wide range of schemes that offer grants that can
help, depending on your circumstances. These are just a
few:
The home energy saving programme can help you
to make you homes more energy-efficient. All low-income and
pensioner households are entitled to free loft and cavity
insulation. Everyone else can get half-price insulation. The
government aims to insulate all Britain's homes by 2020.
To apply call the Government helpline: 0800 512 012
Warm Front Grant
You could be entitled to a warm front grant if:
- you are 60 or older and are in receipt of one or more benefits.
(eg: income support, council tax benefit, housing benefit, job
seekers allowance and pension credit); or
- You have a child under 16 or you are pregnant and have been
given maternity MAT B1 and are also in receipt of benefits such as
income support, council tax benefit etc; or
- you are in receipt of one or more benefits such as disability
living allowance, child tax credit with an income of less than
£16,040, housing benefit and disability premium etc.
Visit the Warm Front
website for more information on eligibility.
Other useful links: