Tips for saving energy at home
Following the energy price cap announced by Ofgem last month, energy bills are set to increase significantly from October, and again in January 2023.
Every household will be offered a £400 energy grant to help this winter, but this won't cover the extra cost. However, there are some ways you can reduce your energy usage:
- Save £105 per year by turning down your thermostat down by 1 degree if it is safe for you
- Save up to £100 a year if you have a water meter by fitting a water efficient shower head (contact your provider as some provide for free)
- Save up to £67 a year if you have a water meter by reducing showers by one minute
- Save £65 a year by draught proofing your Chimney when not in use
- Save £60 a year by drying clothes on racks/outside rather than in the tumble dryer
- Save £55 a year by switching off standby
- Save £55 a year by replacing old bulbs with LEDs
- Save £45 a year by draught proofing windows and doors
- Save £28 a year by washing at 30 degrees and do one less wash a week
- Save £20 a year by turning off lights when not needed.
Source: The Energy Saving Trust
How we can support you
- Free funding to heat your home: From late September, a new 'Sustainable Warmth' grant of up to £25,000 will be available for families with a household income of less than £30,000. The grant can be used to fund heating and insulation measures. Details will be published on the Surrey County Council website and social media channels soon.
- Financial and health support: We know that more and more people in Surrey are finding themselves in challenging situations and struggling financially and health-wise. The Health and Welfare Support web page provides information about support available to you and you can also call our Community Helpline on 0300 200 1008 (Monday to Friday from 9am until 5pm) and we'll point you in the right direction.
- Grants for small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs): Businesses are also affected by the increase in energy prices, and can receive a LoCASE grant of up to £20,000 to implement energy efficiency measures, to reduce carbon footprint and energy costs. Businesses can also access free courses to help develop their business.
Support from others
- Contact your electricity and gas suppliers for advice, payment breaks, grants and free equipment such as eco shower heads.
- For advice on how to reduce your energy use and carbon footprint, call Action Surrey on 0800 783 2503 to speak with an energy advisor or email them at info@actionsurrey.org.
- Go to the Surrey Community Matters for free advice on saving energy and reducing energy bills or call them on 07521 503 696.
- Citizens Advice Bureau offer to help complete forms to access grants. Visit the Citizens Advice Bureau grants and benefits web page for more information on the support available to you to help you pay your energy bills.
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