The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) is planning new regulations that will see the worst "vampire" appliances removed from UK stores from next year, potentially saving families money on their energy bills.
Vampire appliances are devices that continue to draw power when in standby mode. For example, when a microwave isn't being used, many models continue to consume electricity to power functions such as clocks, displays and electronic controls.
New Standards to Cut Wasted Energy
DESNZ wants products to meet new regulations that will cut the amount of wasted energy. This would create small energy savings over time, though DESNZ estimates that products may cost more upfront, with price increases of between £1.48 and £5.55 per appliance.
Households with fewer appliances are also likely to see more benefit compared to families with already higher energy bills. The improved measures would impact a range of household products, from microwaves to TVs, and a consultation has gone live to get feedback on the proposals.
Potential Savings and Industry Reaction
The Mirror has previously reported how leaving a TV, games console, microwave and digital TV box on standby, plus a phone and laptop charging for 24 hours a day, would add more than £32 a year to a family's bill.
Martin McCluskey, Minister for Local Energy and Jobs, said: "When it comes to energy bills, the small things can really add up and end up costing families a chunk of money over a year. We are improving our standards to stop everyday devices silently draining electricity from the grid and money from families' bank accounts."
Richard Neudegg, director of regulation at Uswitch.com, said: "Tougher standby limits on household appliances will be a welcome move, as this could make it easier to cut wasted energy as consumers get new devices. But families shouldn't wait to take control themselves. Switching off at the wall, unplugging chargers, and checking what's left running overnight are quick wins, and households with a smart meter can go a step further by connecting it to free tools, such as the Uswitch app, to track daily energy use and help manage their home."
Winter Energy Bill Pressures
The news comes as families are set to be hit with another energy bill hike this winter as the Iran war continues to drive up wholesale costs. The Ofgem price cap for the typical household that pays by direct debit is currently set at £1,723 a year, but energy analysts at Cornwall Insight predict this could rise to £1,999 in January.
