26 July 2011
Waveney MP Peter Aldous is calling on constituents to take action, winter-proof their homes and save money.

With the costs of food, clothing and running a car all on the increase, one cost that consumers can take action to control is the rising energy bill.

Currently, around £1 of every £4 we spend on heating our homes is wasted because of a lack of adequate insulation. And with over 6 million cavity walls unfilled, and over 10 million lofts unlagged, huge amounts of money is being wasted.

Cavity wall and loft insulation consumers can heat their homes for a much lower cost, saving hundreds of pounds from their bills. And customers of British Gas can take advantage of the company’s offer to insulate their homes free.

Research from the Centre for Economic and Business Research (Cebr) has shown that energy efficiency can have a significant impact. The research, conducted earlier this year, analysed over 40 million meter readings over a five year period and showed that customers of British Gas are using 22% less gas on average. Some customers were saving as much as £322 a year on their energy bills.

Peter Aldous said:

“We all know that household budgets are stretched. One area where households can take control is over their energy bills where simple steps will help you use less and save you money. If people in Waveney take action and get the free energy efficiency that they are entitled to, then they can save themselves hundreds of pounds every year. If they act now they can be ready long before winter.”

Following an agreement with the Government in September 2008, the major energy suppliers are committed to improving the energy efficiency levels of much of the UK’s housing stock to the tune of £5.5billion. Through this scheme, many vulnerable people have access to free energy efficiency measures.

Gearoid Lane, Managing Director of British Gas New Markets says:
“Rising energy prices don't have to mean higher bills. Britain's housing stock is some of the most inefficient in the developed world with £1 in every £4 spent on heating our homes wasted because of poor insulation. Basic efficiency measures can make a difference. All our customers need do is contact us and we can get them the help they need.”