Customers Have the Power to ‘Energy Proof’ Homes and Save Money
07 February 2006
Jim Allister MEP has signed the Energy Saving Trust ‘Pledge to Save Energy’ and urges householders to protect themselves against gas, oil and electricity price increases by introducing simple energy saving measures into the home, which will help reduce energy bills.
He said “The continued price rises in the cost of home heating fuels are bad news for families throughout Northern Ireland and action is needed to address escalating fuel bills and improve the quality of our homes. Energy saving measures can help offset price increases as well as protect the environment.
“Consumers can make significant savings by ‘Energy Proofing’ their homes with simple no-cost and low-cost measures. Installing just one energy-saving light bulb, for example, can save up to £10 a year off your energy bill, while fitting a hot water jacket will save up to £15. Even bigger savings can be made by insulating your loft and walls and installing efficient heating systems, Mr Allister said.
“Switching televisions & videos off standby and draught proofing will also help reduce the amount of fuel used in the home, therefore reducing carbon dioxide emissions and lessening the impact of higher energy bills on the household. “
Financial grants are available to help meet the cost of making homes more energy efficient. For more information about the grants available across Northern Ireland log onto the Energy Saving Trust’s website www.saveenergy.co.uk or call the Northern Ireland EST Advice Centre on Free Phone 0800 512 012.
