Expert Tips to Reduce Energy Costs
ScottishPower, which supplies 4.3 million customers, commissioned research revealing that two-thirds of Brits (67%) say greener living still feels out of reach. As households seek ways to cut costs and live more sustainably, small changes can make a big difference. TV architect and presenter George Clarke, ScottishPower's Greener Living Ambassador, argues that practical home adjustments can noticeably reduce energy consumption and monthly expenses. He and ScottishPower shared their five top energy-saving tips with the Express.
Install a Smart Meter
A smart meter is the first step towards living more sustainably, according to George Clarke and ScottishPower. It helps track energy use in real-time, enabling small changes that lead to meaningful savings. Smart meters also unlock time-of-use tariffs and flexible energy options.
Choose an Energy Plan for Your Routine
Being energy-efficient isn't just about how you use power, but when. Many households don't realise that shifting usage to off-peak times can reduce costs. Some tariffs offer cheaper electricity during specific hours, allowing you to run appliances like washing machines or dishwashers when demand is lower. This not only reduces your bill but also supports the use of more renewable energy from sources like wind and solar.
Low-Cost Home Improvements
A few affordable tweaks can quickly improve energy efficiency. Tackle draughts by using draught excluders along doors and sealing gaps where cold air enters. Bleed radiators to remove trapped air, which prevents proper heating and wastes energy. Replace lighting with LED bulbs and turn off lights when not needed, saving around £7 a year. Swapping one bath a week for a 4-minute shower could save £9 annually on energy bills.
Don't Neglect Your Boiler
The experts urge Brits to book boiler maintenance this summer. Regular servicing ensures the boiler runs safely and efficiently. Summer is the best time for servicing, as demand is lower and any issues can be resolved before winter.
Think Long-Term Investments
For those able to invest more, options like solar panels or electric vehicles can significantly reduce running costs over time. While upfront expenses are higher, long-term savings on energy and fuel can be substantial. Adding battery storage to solar panels increases benefits by storing excess energy for evening use. Households may also export surplus electricity back to the grid for additional value.
