Research has found that almost half of households are managing their energy usage carefully this winter due to soaring energy bills. A survey conducted by MoneySuperMarket revealed that 45% of respondents have delayed turning on their heating compared to last year. Additionally, 10% reported disagreements within their families regarding heating usage, while 6% believed that someone in their home had fallen ill due to inadequate heating.
These findings coincide with the impending increase in Ofgem’s price cap to an average of £1,758 per year for many households, representing a 50% surge since its introduction in 2019. More than half of households feel that the cost of living has worsened over the past year, with 31% having to make financial cutbacks.
Laura Hinton, from MoneySuperMarket Energy, emphasized that rising energy bills and everyday expenses are putting pressure on households during the festive season. She suggested strategies such as using energy-efficient appliances, reducing heating usage, and opting for fixed energy deals to save money and shield against future price hikes.
Furthermore, installing smart meters can help monitor real-time energy consumption, while the Energy Saving Trust offers tips to lower energy costs during the holiday season. Suggestions include adjusting boiler flow temperatures, using draught excluders, maximizing dishwasher and washing machine efficiency, and embracing energy-saving habits like batch cooking and utilizing LED or solar Christmas lights.
Other recommendations from the Energy Saving Trust include lowering thermostats when cooking or hosting guests, keeping pan lids on when cooking, and letting leftovers cool before freezing. The use of rechargeable batteries is also encouraged to reduce waste and save money in the long run.