Energy bills to hit £3,000 but ‘small’ changes could reduce costs
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In April 2023, energy bills for the typical household are expected to increase to £3,000 annually. This is because the Government’s energy price guarantee, which caps the cost per unit of gas and electricity for homes with average usage, will increase from £2,500 to £3,000. While households will not need to pay £3,739 a year, which was originally forecast by Cornwall Insights, families are still looking for ways to reduce their costs.
As it stands, the energy price guarantee is expected to remain in place for another year as the Government attempts to mitigate the damage of the cost of living crisis.
During his Autumn Statement last month, the Chancellor Jeremy Hunt outlined his long-term agenda to help people with their gas and electricity costs.
Mr Hunt said: “From April, we will continue the energy price guarantee for a further 12 months at a higher level of £3,000 per year for the average household.
“With prices forecast to remain elevated through next year, this will still mean an average of £500 support for every household.”
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Experts are highlighting that “small change” in the home could make the world of difference when it comes to tackling skyrocketing energy bills.
Speaking exclusively to Express.co.uk, Jack Ferguson, an energy saving expertQuotezone.co.uk, broke down what families should be considering when looking to save money in the coming months.
Mr Ferguson explained: “When reviewing home energy usage, it’s important to make long term changes, even small ones, that will help you save money all year round.
“If you can make the changes into a household habit, the more likely they are to stick. We recommend you ask yourself: Do I really need to use it? Is there a cheaper way? Is this energy saving tip safe?
“Start small and check how much you’re saving by turning down radiators, washing clothes at 30 degrees C and reducing your use of the immersion heater and tumble dryer – you’ll be amazed at your reduction in wattage which could prove helpful this side of Christmas.”
Among the “small changes” he recommends families adopt this winter include using fewer devices, for example getting the household together to watch TV in the same room.
On top of this, he suggests that families insulate their home, particularly around the walls and roof to conserve heat.
Furthermore, Mr Ferguson suggests that bleeding radiators and using appliances, such as thermostatic radiator valves, will save people money in the long-term.
The energy expert added: “Plan ahead: if you are not going to be home, remember to change your heating settings.
“Smart controls allow you to do this from anywhere, so if your budget can stretch you could save a lot
“Stay fresh and ventilate your home each day: open the windows a little for a short period to let moisture out in the mornings (and after showering or cooking).
“Dry air is heated faster than humid air, so this can help save money. If you dry clothes indoors, try to do it in an unoccupied space (like a bathroom or garage) and increase the ventilation in this area.”
On top of out-of-control energy bills, Britons are also experiencing inflation at a decades-long high.
As it stands, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) rate of inflation has reached 11.1 percent, which is the most it has been in 41 years.
With this factor causing the prices of goods and services to go up, the crisis over energy bills is exacerbated.
However, experts like Mr Ferguson are confident “small changes” will help people reduce their costs as the price of gas and electricity continues to rise.
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