Navigating energy bills continues to be something of a daunting task, especially when finances are limited. The Association has put together some practical advice and suggestions on the subject to help alleviate the pressure of high energy bills which we hope will be helpful for our member almshouse charities and their residents.

Warm Home Discount
There is support available to help with your energy bills, whether it be through energy grants or support services. If you are receiving pension credit or certain other benefits, you could qualify for the Warm Home Discount which is a one-time payment of Ā£150 to help with your electricity bill. If you’re eligible and your supplier participates in the scheme, the discount is usually received automatically between October and March. 

Winter Fuel Payment
There has been much comment in the media about the cuts that have been made in Winter Fuel Payments and the process now involved in applying for this, but for those aged over 60 it is still worth enquiring whether you are eligible for this payment from the government of up to Ā£300 that helps cover energy costs during the chilly winter months.

Cold weather payment
This payment kicks in when the temperature drops below 0 degrees for a whole week. You could get Ā£25 for each qualifying week between November and March.

The Priority Services Register (PSR)
This offers essential support for those needing extra assistance from their energy provider due to disability, illness, low income or age. Benefits include tailored help during emergencies, advanced notice of power cuts, and energy-saving advice. It is necessary to contact your energy supplier to be put on the register.

Each supplier has its own process for those in difficulty with energy bills, so it’s best to speak to them when you need help.

ā€‹Practical tips to help save energy

  • Upgrade appliances with those that have good EPC (energy performance certificate) ratings to reduce energy consumption.
  • Replace old incandescent bulbs with energy efficient LED bulbs which use less energy and have a longer lifespan.
  • Seal drafts: Check around windows, doors, and vents and seal them with weatherstripping or caulking. This helps prevent heat loss in winter and keeps cool air inside during summer.
  • Set your thermostat to energy efficient temperatures of between 18-21 degrees. The lower the setting the higher the savings.
  • Curtains: During sunny days, open curtains or blinds to keep the home warmer. Close them at night to retain heat.
  • Deal with faulty insulation or inefficient heating, let your landlord know.
  • Limit hot water usage: Use energy efficient showerheads, take shorter showers, and wash clothes in cold water to reduce energy consumption associated with heating water.
  • Install a smart meter which is free. This shows you exactly how much energy you’re using and when so you can spot any energy guzzling habits and make changes to save money. 
  • Laundry tips: Wash clothes at 20-40Ā°C to save energy and money. Avoid using the tumble dryer and instead, dry clothes outside whenever possible. Don’t dry clothes directly on radiators as it disrupts the warm airflow in the room.
  • Water usage: Spend less time in the shower aiming for just 4 minutes and consider swapping baths for showers. Avoid overfilling the kettle, only boiling the amount of water you need.
  • Dishwasher usage: Fill your dishwasher with a full load and use the eco setting if available to save energy.

posted 29 October 2024