Research has found that almost half of households are adapting their energy usage this winter due to soaring energy bills. A survey by MoneySuperMarket revealed that 45% of respondents have delayed turning on their heating compared to last year. Additionally, 10% reported disagreements within their families regarding heating usage, and 6% believed that someone in their household fell ill due to inadequate heating.
With just over two weeks left until Ofgem’s price cap rises to an average of £1,758 per year for many households, the financial strain is evident. Although the increase is marginal at 0.2%, bills have surged by 50% since the cap’s inception in 2019.
The survey also highlighted that over half of households feel the cost of living has worsened in the past year, leading to 31% making cutbacks. Laura Hinton from MoneySuperMarket Energy emphasized the need for energy cost management amid escalating expenses, advising households to consider switching to fixed deals to save money and shield themselves from future price hikes.
Furthermore, adopting a smart meter can help monitor real-time energy consumption, providing insights to optimize usage. The Energy Saving Trust has suggested 12 strategies to reduce energy bills during the festive season, including adjusting boiler temperatures, using draught excluders, and maximizing the efficiency of household appliances.
Implementing these energy-saving measures not only promotes cost-efficiency but also contributes to environmental sustainability, ensuring a comfortable and budget-friendly holiday season for households.