The news recently, is full of reports on what’s being termed as the ‘energy crisis’ in the UK.  Experts warn that households could face unprecedented rises in their energy bills, as gas prices surge.

According to the consumer expert Martin Lewis, the cheapest tariffs in the last year alone, have increased by 50 per cent.

In this blog, we offer tips on reducing ever increasing energy bills and advice on the support available for those who may need extra help this winter.

1. Minimise heat loss

We fully understand just how frustrating those ever-increasing energy bills can be, but there are things we can all do to save money on our energy bills. One of which, is thinking about the fabric of our home and reducing the heat loss.

According to the Energy Saving Trust (EST), around one-third of the heat loss from most homes is through the walls and a quarter of heat is lost through the roof in an uninsulated home.

The heat will always flow from a warm area to a colder one, so consequently, during the winter months, the colder it is outside, the quicker the heat will escape.

There are other energy-saving measures worth investigating. Your home may be suitable for underfloor insulation, internal wall insulation and/or room in roof insulation.

2. Heating doesn’t have to be costly

Your boiler can account for around 55% of the amount you spend on your annual energy bills, so an A-rated energy efficient boiler really does make economic sense. According to the Energy Saving Trust (EST), you could save up to £540* a year on your energy bills.

If you already have an energy-efficient A-rated boiler, ensure you use your programmer and thermostat to control your heating and the temperature of your home. With most people spending a lot more time at home, it makes sense to think about the times you program your heating to come on. Turning the temperature down slightly can save both energy and money.

3. Energy-efficient light bulbs

Winter brings about shorter daylight hours and the increase in switching our lighting on in our homes. Additionally, a lot of us are spending more time at home and we may feel a little worried about what our energy bill is going to be at the end of the month.

According to the Energy Saving Trust (EST), you can save up to £3 per year for every traditional halogen bulb you switch to a bright LED bulbs.

You may be eligible for help

Warm Home Discount Scheme

You could get £140 off your electricity bill for winter 2021 to 2022 under the Government Warm Home Discount Scheme. The scheme opens on 18 October 2021.

The money is not paid to you – it’s a one-off discount on your electricity bill, between October and March. You may be able to get the discount on your gas bill instead if your supplier provides you with both gas and electricity.

You may be entitled to the Warm Home Discount Scheme, if you are in receipt of the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit or you are on a low income.

Visit the Government website which has all the details on the Warm Home Discount Scheme.

Speak with your energy supplier

If you are struggling to cope with your rising energy bills, speak with your energy supplier.  There are a number of energy suppliers who offer grants and schemes.

 

Funding for boiler replacements and insulation

There is funding through the Energy Company Obligation (ECO) scheme.  This is an obligation placed by the Government on to the energy suppliers, to provide funding for energy-saving measures, including boiler replacements and insulation, for qualifying households.  This is part of a wider government strategy to reduce carbon emissions and help householders save money on their energy bills.

Find out more about the Energy Company Obligation Scheme and to see if you qualify.

 

*According to the Energy Saving Trust (EST).  These are estimated figures based on installing a new A-rated condensing boiler with a programmer, thermostat and thermostatic radiator controls in a gas heated semi-detached home.