David Backs Big Energy Week
David Ward MP has backed Big Energy Week campaign, which aims to help consumers to save on their energy bills.
The campaign, which is organised by the Citizens Advice Bureau and other leading charities will offer advice on switching energy suppliers and making sure you are on the cheapest tariffs, as well as tips on the best ways to save energy. It will run until 21st January.
A new website - www.bigenergyweek.org.uk - is full of tips on how to cut energy bills by insulating your home, or checking to see if you are eligible for tax credits.
Commenting, David Ward said:
"I am delighted to support Big Energy Week. I know fuel bills are a big worry for everyone at the moment, particularly those living on fixed incomes like pensioners.
"Everyone has seen their bills go up but many people aren't aware that they can make big savings just by switching supplier or changing tariff. There are also a huge number of schemes available to help people save energy with insulation or better heating systems.
"This campaign helps people navigate around the system and find the best package for them."
Citizens Advice, Chief Executive, Gillian Guy said:
"We know hikes in prices have put extra pressure on people's budgets at a time when money is already tight. Day in day out our Bureaux helping people who can't afford their fuel bills.
"We're worried that some people are struggling unnecessarily because they're not on the best deal; live in homes that haemorrhage heat or are not getting all of the financial help available to them."
Big Energy Week is helping people save money on their bills by encouraging them to:
- Contact your supplier to check you are you are on the best tariff and payment method for you. Monthly direct debit is on average £100 cheaper per year than paying by cash or cheque.
- Visit an accredited switching website to see if you could get your energy cheaper elsewhere. You may be able to save up to £200 off your annual bill by shopping around for a different supplier, particularly if you have never changed energy firm.
- Insulate the walls and the loft of your home and you could save on average around £120 per year. All major gas and electricity suppliers are giving away free or discounted insulation to any household, not just their own customers. Ask if you're eligible so you don't miss out. That goes for heating oil customers too.
- Check you are not missing out on any benefits or tax credits that could up your income; your local Citizens Advice Bureaux can help you with this.
- Using less energy could save you money, just by doing simple things like turning off lights and switching appliances off at the wall. Turning your thermostat down 1°C alone could cut your heating bill by £60 on average.
- If you are unable to pay your bills you should contact your energy supplier immediately as they have to help you manage your bills in a way that you can afford.
- If you use heating oil or liquid petroleum gas to heat your home, shop around and compare prices from different oil suppliers. You could also save money by buying in bulk with your neighbours; check if there is an oil club you can join or start one up.