Britain still lukewarm on green energy

With environmental issues top of the agenda, new research from SimplySwitch has revealed that green attitudes do not yet translate into action when it comes to choosing energy providers. While over two thirds of Britons claim that being ‘green’ is important, only 16% would consider switching to a green energy tariff.

‘Saving money’ remains the primary motivation behind switching energy providers. 80% of Brits voted this their top reason, with ‘customer service levels’ taking second place. However, many Brits do not realise that by switching to a green energy tariff they could save money, as all of the leading energy providers now offer green energy at highly competitive rates.

Another way in which householders can help the environment, while also saving money, is by installing energy efficiency measures. By fitting items such as loft insulation and energy-saving light bulbs, National Statistics estimates that British homes could save a staggering £5 billion pounds each year.

In this respect, it is actually the older generation that is leading the way. According to the SimplySwitch research, almost 57 percent of over-55s have installed energy efficiency measures, far more than in other age-groups. For example, while 72 percent of under-34s ‘try to be as energy efficient as possible’; just 35 percent had actually installed energy-saving devices.

Karen Darby, from SimplySwitch.com, comments: “Our research confirms that there is now a widespread support for green energy and energy-saving measures. However, these good intentions aren’t yet turning into action because of the perception that going green is expensive. Luckily, signing up to green electricity doesn’t have to mean paying more. While green energy is still more expensive than the cheapest ‘online’ deals, many green tariffs provide significant savings over suppliers’ standard rates. Signing up for green electricity is an excellent opportunity for customers to do their bit for the environment while also looking after their bank balance.”

SimplySwitch.com’s top five tips to boost energy efficiency around the home:

1. Install energy efficient light bulbs. It will cut energy wastage by three quarters and save you £10 per year on your energy bills.

2. Insulating cavity walls, one of the biggest energy savers, reduces heat loss through the wall by up to 60 per cent, a saving of up to £100 per year.

3. Using a 40°C wash cycle, rather that 60°C, means you use a third less electricity.

4. Fitting a jacket to your hot water tank can cut wastage by up to three quarters.

5. By investing in an energy efficient tumble dryer you can cut energy wastage by almost a third.

To find the best green energy tariffs visit simplyswitch.com.