Big Energy Saving Week 2021: 'Check, Switch, Save'

As we are spending more time at home than ever before, Hebden Royd Town Council are encouraging residents to take part in The Big Energy Saving Week. It is a national campaign that runs from 18th to 24th January to help people cut their energy bills and get the financial support they are entitled to. It does this by focusing on three main areas: Check – Switch – Save.

We all have the power to save energy, money and the environment through everyday actions. Simple changes such as switching energy supplier or tariff, accessing discounts or grants, and making homes more energy-efficient can make a big difference.

The impact of the Covid-19 pandemic is having a greater impact on energy usage than ever, as many of us continue to work from home – boiling the kettle more often, keeping the lights switched on and turning up the thermostat on colder days.

Energy bills are a big worry for many of us this winter. But you could save money on your bills simply by checking you're not paying more than you need to. Follow the quick and easy steps below and you could reduce your bills and energy too.

CHECK

Check if you are eligible for discounts, grants or support. You could be missing out on special discounts, grants or support that will save you money. Visit the Citizens Advice energy advice page for the full list of support available here


Check you are getting the best deal on your energy bills. Use the Citizen Advice price comparison tool to compare prices and tariffs from different energy suppliers.

SWITCH

By switching supplier or tariff, you could save hundreds of pounds. Last year the campaign helped over 18,000 people switch their supplier or tariff and get a better deal on their energy bills. You can also become an Energy Super Saver and make a real difference in your community. Visit Switch for more information.

SAVE

There are many ways to save energy and reduce your energy bills this winter. Each small step adds up to a bigger saving and will help keep your home warm. Here's some ideas you can action today!

If you have a timer on your central heating system, set the heating and hot water to come on only when required.

If you turn down your main thermostat by 1 degree, you can save around £60 on your energy bill. But make sure your home is still warm enough during cold weather.

Turning your appliances off standby mode can save you  £35 a year, and remember not to leave laptops and mobile phones on charge unnecessarily.

Close your curtains at dusk to stop heat escaping through the windows and check for draughts around windows and doors.

Spend one minute less in the shower each day and a family of four could save £75 a year on energy and water bills.

Visit bigenergysavingwinter.org.uk to find out more

Added: Thursday, 21 January 2021

Photos from Hebden Royd