Big Energy Saving Week kicks off in Exeter

Exeter residents are being urged to look at their energy bills this week, as part of national Big Energy Saving Week (20-26 January 2020).

The week is aimed at encouraging people to save money simply by switching their energy provider.

Staff and volunteers from Citizen’s Advice Exeter will be running sessions to help people take control of their energy usage, reduce their household bills and make sure they’re getting the best deal.

Individuals looking for advice about this can speak to an expert at Exeter Library between 10-12pm on Monday 20 January, the Guildhall Shopping Centre between 10-2pm on Wednesday 22 January and Wonford Community Centre between 9.30-11.30am on Thursday 23 January.

As Big Energy Saving Week 2020 kicks off, new research has revealed a significant gap in consumer understanding about managing their household energy use and the simple steps people can take to reduce their carbon footprint.

The survey, conducted by Citizens Advice and the Energy Saving Trust, shows that over a third (36%) of British households have not made changes to their energy usage at home in recent years. That’s 9.7 million households that experts say need more help and encouragement with ways to save money and reduce their household emissions.

To support people make those changes Citizens Advice, Energy Saving Trust and the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) are launching an expert-approved list of ‘20 ways to save’ this Big Energy Saving Week 2020. The organisations are urging people to take a look and see how small changes can make a big difference.

These include four changes which together could potentially save households £100 per year and help cut carbon emissions:

Turning your thermostat down by one degree
Changing your all your lightbulbs to LEDs
Turning appliances off rather than keeping them on standby
Only using the right amount of water in your kettle

Steve Barriball, chief executive of Citizens Advice Exeter, said: “Big Energy Saving Week aims to put money in your pocket and help the planet.

“Citizens Advice Exeter has lots of information and advice on how to save energy and cut household bills. This could range from everyday actions, such as reducing how much water you put in the kettle, to bigger projects like insulating your home.

“Our advisors and volunteers will also be able to help with your all your queries about saving energy and money, including switching to a cheaper energy tariff, or accessing extra grants and benefits.”