We are facing uncertain times in terms of rising energy costs, so we felt it was important to discuss how it impacts us all and ways we can support each other and help keep costs down.

Over the past few weeks, our Area Housing teams have been visiting tenants in our Independent Living schemes to talk about the impact of energy prices on our service charge.

We really do appreciate your support and understanding during this time. We have enjoyed our information sessions, where you have contributed some interesting and valuable ways we can save energy.

So what are your top tips?

Ian (pictured above): “I feel quite lucky as I am with British Gas and at the moment I am on a low tariff until next August. But I know people will have different experiences.

 “My energy saving tip would be to make use of the sun if you live in a south facing property. The sun hits my window and keeps me warm most of the day, so I turn my radiator off.”

Eileen: “I have found this talk really useful and I know more now than I did before. I like to put a lamp on at night, which does not use as much energy. I don’t like bright lights.”

Maureen (pictured above): “I recommend using an air fryer or slow cooker, rather than your oven as they use smaller amounts of energy. The air fryer is brilliant. I put everything in it, such as fish and chips, sausage and bacon, roast potatoes and chicken. There is a temperature gauge like an oven but it is much faster. I also do casseroles in the slow cooker. I haven’t used my cooker since I got these and it is definitely saving electricity.”

 

More top energy saving tips:

  1. Turning down your room thermostat by just one degree can save 10% on your heating bill per year - It is recommended you keep the temperature in your home between 18ºC/65ºF and 21ºC/70ºF. If you are elderly or in poor health, keep the temperature at 21ºC/70ºF.
  2. If you have an immersion heater, do not leave it on when you are not using it.
  3. Don’t overfill your kettle - only boil the amount you need.
  4. Always use the right sized pan. Use the correct hob ring for each pan. Keep the lids on pans as much as you can to reduce heat loss - turn the heat down when it reaches the boil.
  5. Cooking big batches of food at once is more energy efficient. Storing spare portions in the freezer gives you a supply of ready meals.
  6. If you are considering buying a new fridge, freezer, dishwasher or other household appliance, check out the Energy Saving Trust (EST) website www.energysavingtrust.org.uk, to help you choose energy efficient items. They may cost more, but will save you more long term.
  7. Have a full load when you use the washing machine - a half load setting usually uses more than half the energy of a full load. Use the eco setting wherever possible.
  8. Avoid leaving electrical items, such as the TV, computer, or microwave on standby. Once your phone is fully charged, remove your phone and switch the plug off.
  9. Draw your curtains at night – it keeps the heat in.
  10. Don’t leave the tap running when brushing your teeth and avoid washing dishes under running water. Fill the sink with water instead.

For even more energy saving tips, download our advice pack under the heading simple energy saving tips: Saving money | Progress Housing Group (progressgroup.org.uk)

 

If you need to speak to someone about managing your finances please contact us on 03333 204555, email enquiries@progressgroup.org.uk or try our live chat on our website between 8am and 5pm Monday to Friday.

Citizens Advice also provides energy and financial support and can be contacted on 0800 144 8848. They also provide a webchat service on www.citizensadvice.org.uk between 8am and 7pm, Monday to Friday.