Feeling the Heat of High Energy Bills? 

Energy prices have increased rapidly in recent years, in fact based on British Gas prices, since 2003 gas has gone up a huge 91% and electricity by 81%.  Similarly, heating oil and LPG have doubled in price.  Consequently, the average household energy bill is now more than £1,000! 

Whilst consumers can help reduce their energy bills by changing to a cheaper supplier, it is far better for householders to look at how they can save energy.  The average household wastes up to £300 a year through poor insulation, old boiler, lack of heating controls and bad habits like leaving appliances on ‘standby’ mode. 

Energy Efficiency Officer for East Lindsey District Council, Darren Adams said “typically a third of heat loss in the home is through the walls, so if your property has un-insulated cavity walls, insulating them would result in an annual saving of up to £130-160”.  Also, up to 25% of all heat loss occurs through the roof.  Having the recommended 270mm (11 inches) of insulation in the loft should result in a drop in your annual fuel bill of £50-£220 depending on how much insulation is already in there. 

Darren also says “other measures such as draught-proofing, low energy lighting, extra heating controls and not leaving appliances on ‘standby’ mode could also bring further savings”. 

The Government has committed itself to reducing carbon dioxide emissions implicated in global warming and climate change by 20% from a 1990 baseline by 2010, householders are being asked to do their bit and join in with the ‘Save Your 20%’ commitment theme by visiting www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/commit and registering their commitment. 

There are some excellent grants and subsidised schemes for insulation and heating improvements currently running in Lincolnshire and there are some special offers and services available for the over 60s.  Residents are urged to make enquiries whilst current funding and subsidy levels remain. 

Grants are also available for the installation of renewable energy systems from the Low Carbon Buildings Programme and the Lincolnshire Green Heat (LIGHT) scheme. This service is supported and endorsed by all of the local authorities in Lincolnshire. 

For free advice, further information and a free home energy check contact:

Lincolnshire Energy Efficiency Advice Centre

Tel: 0800 512 012