Nearly half of households are finding ways to conserve energy this winter due to soaring energy bills, a recent study has revealed. Research conducted by MoneySuperMarket indicates that 45% of respondents have delayed turning on their heating compared to the previous year, showcasing the impact of rising costs.
The survey also highlighted that 10% of participants have had disagreements within their families regarding heating usage, while 6% expressed concerns that someone in their household had fallen ill due to inadequate heating. These findings emerge just before Ofgem’s price cap increase to an average of £1,758 annually for millions of households, representing a significant surge from the initial cap introduced in 2019.
Over half of the households surveyed reported a worsened cost of living over the past year, with approximately 31% having to make financial cutbacks. Laura Hinton from MoneySuperMarket Energy emphasized the financial strain on households, urging individuals to be mindful of their energy consumption and consider energy-efficient practices to alleviate the burden.
To combat escalating energy expenses, Hinton suggested exploring fixed energy deals for potential savings and protection against future price hikes. Additionally, installing a smart meter can help monitor real-time energy usage, providing insights into power-consuming appliances and aiding in cost management.
Moreover, the Energy Saving Trust offers 12 tips to help households reduce energy costs during the festive season. These include adjusting boiler temperatures, utilizing appliances efficiently, and embracing energy-saving practices like batch cooking and using LED lights. Implementing these strategies can lead to substantial savings and contribute to a more sustainable energy consumption approach.