Comment on the Government's Renewable Energy Strategy out today

Published:

15/07/2009

Topic:

Press Release,Gas & Electricity

Scott Byrom, utilities manager at moneysupermarket.com said: "The aims here are clearly honorable, it is crucial the UK has a workable plan in place to transform the country's energy usage, but what a shame we once again see already-stretched bill payers footing the bill for Government initiatives."

"According to the DECC, the average customer will see an additional six per cent added to their annual household utilities bill to cover these initiatives, but I think this is a gross underestimation and in reality it will be higher. Bill payers are effectively facing a stealth price hike here - they need to be shielded from prices rises, not exposed to the direct cost involved.
 
"Choosing the best utilities tariff for your usage and consumption is crucial to cutting the cost of energy bills. A consumer who has never swapped energy provider will undoubtedly be paying over the odds for their bills. Consumers who swap to a better tariff through moneysupermarket.com will save £174 a year on average.
 
"Also included in today's strategy was the astonishing figure that a third of the money spent on energy bills is wasted due to poor home insulation. This is a clear call to action for consumers to start thinking about better energy efficiency in their homes. It appears energy bills will not decrease so consumers need to start taking steps now to reduce their consumption and cut back on using energy wherever possible.  While bills are currently low due to the lull in consumption over the summer months, it would be a real investment for the winter ahead to take measures now to better insulate homes, therefore making savings when bill payers really need them.
 
Energy saving tips from moneysupermarket.com: 

• Replace light bulbs with energy saving versions.
• Is your hot water too hot? For most, setting the thermostat at 60°C/140°F is fine for bathing.
• Don't leave the fridge door open longer than necessary and defrost freezers regularly.
• When cooking leave saucepan lids on as this will allow you to turn down the heat.
• Don't use more water than you need when boiling a kettle as it takes much more electricity to boil a full kettle each time than just enough water for a cuppa or two.
• For those willing to spend money to save money, loft insulation is a great investment. Up to 25 per cent of heat loss occurs through lofts that are not insulated.
• Cavity wall insulation can also prove to be a big money saver. Insulation can save up to 35 per cent of heat loss through walls.
• Invest in a lagging jacket for your hot water tank and insulate pipes-this will pay for itself in a few months with the money saved
• Turning your thermostat down by 1°C could cut your heating bills down by up to 10 per cent. If you are going away for winter leeave the thermostat on a low setting to provide protection from freezing at the minimum cost.

-Ends-

Notes to Editors:

* Source: EnergyWatch

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