Monday, October 25, 2010
Category:
Home Improvements
According to uSwitch.com, 61 percent of households are concerned about the cost of their energy bills as we head into the winter months. This comes following a survey of 5,070 UK energy customers, conducted by YouGov online on behalf of the independent price comparison and switching service. The research also revealed that 20 percent of households are ‘already struggling’ to meet the cost of their energy bills. What’s more, it was found that 73 percent have either already decreased the amount of energy utilised or they intend to do so in a bid to lower their bills.
When asked whether last year’s cold winter had increased respondents’ awareness of the cost of energy, 72 percent reportedly agreed that it had. This was found to be the motivating factor behind 48 percent improving the efficiency of their homes, whilst an additional 24 percent are now more likely to take such action.
Director of Consumer Policy at uSwitch.com, Ann Robinson, commented: "The high cost of energy coupled with last year's bitter winter has had a lasting impression on British householders. In some ways it has acted as a force for good, encouraging people to make their homes more energy efficient in time for this winter. But it isn't all positive news and the big concern is for those who have been left behind, who cannot afford to make their homes energy efficient and who look set to face another winter of self-rationing to stop their fuel bills going through the roof.
"It is vital that the right balance is achieved between being energy efficient and being energy deficient – the idea of people going without energy in the winter has got to set alarm bells ringing. Over half of households aren't aware they can speak to their supplier about getting help in making their home more energy efficient. This is such an easy win for suppliers and the Government.
"Before cutting back on energy usage, I would urge consumers to speak to their energy supplier about the help they could get with energy efficiency and to then ensure that they are paying as little as possible for the energy they use by moving to a more competitive energy plan. By taking these steps hopefully households can keep a lid on their winter fuel bill without having to take drastic and potentially dangerous measures."
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Homeowners who would like to improve the energy efficiency of their property, but do not have the money required, could consider taking out a
secured loan. One of many finance options available, a secured loan for home improvements could enable borrowers to have any draughty doors or windows replaced for example. Properties could also be fully insulated to further reduce heat loss, which could potentially reduce energy bills in turn.
