Britain’s energy consumption drops as people try to save money
Over 50% of people are using less energy than they did a year ago in a bid to save money. That’s according to new research that shows as winter sets in and energy consumption is predicted to skyrocket, people are prepared to do whatever it takes to save power- with nearly three quarters of people citing financial hardship as the main reason.
And their efforts should be well rewarded as the research reveals each household could save £250 every year by making some simple energy saving changes.
But it’s not just the little things like installing energy efficient light bulbs and draft excluders that people are now doing, with many considering making big changes to their homes to save money and energy in the long run.
Over a third would now consider a home survey to see if renewable energy could be installed in their property while 40% would pay more to do up their home if it made it more energy-efficient.
Belt-tightening is also affecting what househunters are looking for when buying a house with energy efficiency now high on homeseekers’ wish lists.
Of those surveyed by the Energy Saving Trust, more than half would be interested in buying a house already fitted with renewable energy.
Nearly two thirds also believe an energy-efficient home should be worth more when sold because it saves on heating bills, while half would try to pay less for a home with a poor energy performance certificate.
Phillip Sellwood, Chief Executive of the Energy Saving Trust says, “Some might wonder whether the climate is right for moving home, but it is clear that for those who are planning to purchase a new home that energy efficiency is now a key factor in the decision making process. Features like double glazing and having at least the minimum levels of loft insulation are something that househunters have come to expect – and they want more.
These features are no longer the sole preserve of Kevin McCloud and Grand Designs – these days Kirstie and Phil are just as likely to come across them – no matter the location!”
So what can you do this Energy Saving Week (25th- 31st October) and in the long run to get your home as energy efficient as possible, saving you valuable cash in the energy guzzling winter months ahead?
Philip continues, “There are over 300 grants and offers available to help pay for cavity wall insulation and loft insulation – you can search our grants and offers database online at energysavingtrust.org.uk to see what's available or call your local advice centre free on 0800 512 012.”
Top tips for saving energy
Oliver Heath is on hand with tips suiting all budgets to show you how to make your home energy efficient and stylish. Style tips include:
Replacing all doors leading from hallways with frosted glass panel doors can increase light into the darker recesses of the hallway.
Start a collection of vintage mirrors and position them in hallways or darker spaces to help bounce natural light into darker recesses.
Make your sofa or arm chair even more appealing by layering it up with a throw or blanket. It will make it cosy to snuggle down with when you’re relaxing rather than turning the heating up.
Switch to energy saving light bulbs, they have come along way in terms of style and brightness. There is now a huge range of sizes, fittings that come in vintage, retro and modern styles
For more top tips on saving energy or more information visit energysavingtrust.org.uk.
