Tips To Manage The Soaring Energy Costs

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The UK energy bills are expected to rise by over 50% starting in April, threatening many households with energy poverty. According to Ofgem, the UK's energy sector regulator, many households could see their energy bills rise by approximately £700 a year. While the average household bill is already around £1,300, it makes no doubt that it will be a dramatic challenge for countless Britons. 

But what can you really do to keep your energy costs as low as possible? Here's a scoop for you: You can't avoid the increase by switching suppliers. 

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Switch to renewable energy

While getting solar panels installed on your roof is a significant investment, green energy experts warn that green government and local loans and grants can help make the installation more affordable. Additionally, solar panels can significantly reduce your energy bills, which will help tackle the sudden increase in costs. Indeed, solar panels can reduce your energy expenses by up to 25%, according to the Energy Saving Trust, knocking off around £440/year off your bills. 

It's worth mentioning that solar panel installation costs have dropped under £5,000. Additionally, you can also get paid by the smart export guarantee for the energy your export, which can help with financing. 

Move to a modern property

The UK has some of the least energy-efficient homes in Europe. Indeed, around a quarter of the country's total greenhouse gas emissions result from the energy used to heat our homes. Indeed, poor insulation means that most British households are losing heat, which means they pay for more energy they need. OUt of the 29 million homes in the UK, only 8 million are energy-efficient. Therefore, if your energy costs are already high, it might be worth reaching out to a mortgage adviser to consider your next move. Moving to an energy-efficient property could already reduce your bills and make it easier to face the challenge of the next energy inflation crisis.  

Change your energy consumption habits

Most people don't realise they could save money on their energy bills through strategic habits. Here are simple things that can make a difference without affecting comfort inside your home.

Carpeted floors are more likely to keep the heat in winter. So if your home feels too cold during the winter months, adding carpet to your hard floor could transform the perceived temperature. 

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Improve your humidity levels. Ideally, the moisture in the air should reach around 40 to 55% inside your home. If the air is too dry, it can make the house feel cooler than it really is. As a result, you may be more tempted to turn the heating up, which, in turn, dries out the air further. It's a vicious circle! Instead, try adding a humidifier to your home to increase the humidity levels. 

Use curtains with thermal insulation. Thermal curtains are especially useful to keep the cold air out in winter. If you have old windows or doors, thermal curtains will prevent heat loss. But what you may not realise is that thermal solutions are also helpful to keep the heat out in summer! 

Are you worried about keeping your energy costs manageable despite the energy inflation? There is no miracle formula: You can't avoid the cost increase. However, you can work to minimise energy waste and dependence on traditional energy suppliers.