Energy Savers Week: There are things you can do if you're worried about energy prices

Energy Savers Week was first launched in 2012 by Energy Saving Trust and Citizens Advice Bureau. The week aims to provide resources and information to people on how stay warm and save money with confidence during the winter.

10 Energy Saving Tips:

1. Heating Management: When away from home, turn off the heating. It's more cost-effective to reheat your house upon return rather than maintain a low heat setting.

2. Radiator Efficiency: Ensure radiators are unobstructed by furniture or clothing. This prevents your heating system from overworking and consuming excess energy.

3. Lighting Discipline: Make it a habit to switch off lights when not in use, potentially saving about £25 annually.

4. Eco-friendly Bulbs: Opt for LED bulbs when replacing lightbulbs. LEDs can lead to annual savings of up to £14 per bulb, offering both energy efficiency and longevity.

5. Eliminate Standby Waste: Turn off electronics completely instead of leaving them in standby mode, which can save approximately £55 each year.

6. Washing Machine Efficiency: Use a 30-degree cycle for washing clothes, which can save around £14 annually compared to higher temperature settings.

7. Shower Time Reduction: Shortening shower time to around four minutes could lead to savings of £70 per year.

8. Draught-Proofing Measures: Install draught-proofing strips on windows and doors to save about £45 per year by preventing heat loss.

9. Chimney Draught Exclusion: Fitting a chimney draught excluder can result in savings of around £65 annually by minimizing heat escape.

10. Hot Water Cylinder Insulation: Use a jacket for your hot water cylinder to avoid heat loss. These cost-effective jackets, typically under £30 and simple to install, can lead to an estimated annual saving of £50 in energy costs.

Support & Funding Options for Energy Efficiency:

There are various programs, grants, and incentives designed to help individuals, households, and organizations reduce their energy consumption and debt. Here are common types of support and funding available:

1. Energy Company Obligation (ECO)

• This initiative requires larger energy suppliers to assist households in enhancing their energy efficiency. Support offered includes installing insulation and updating or repairing inefficient heating systems.

2. Energy Bill Grants

• The British Gas Energy Trust offers two grants to help with energy debts up to £2000. The Individuals and Families Fund is open to all, not just British Gas customers, subject to eligibility criteria. Other energy providers offering grants include Boost, Eon, Eon Next, EDF, Scottish Power, Ovo, Octopus, SSE, and Utilita. Additionally, local councils may provide or help locate energy grants.

3. Assistance from Energy Suppliers

• Consider enrolling in the Priority Services Register with your energy provider. This service ensures access to affordable payment plans and emergency credit.

Where to go for help:

Citizens Advice consumer helpline: 0808 223 1133
Citizens Advice debt helpline: 0800 240 4420
Helplines are open 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. This does not include bank holidays. Calls are free from mobiles and landlines.