COLIN BEATTIE MSP SUPPORTS CAMPAIGN ON SMARTER WAYS TO SAVE THIS WINTER

8 quick and simple tips to help you save money, time and energy, supported by Colin Beattie MSP
 
For many households, wintery weather often sparks debate about what temperature to set the thermostat at or how many layers to wear. But for some, the cost of heating a home can be a worry, particularly with more people spending time at home during the pandemic.
 
To help families in Midlothian and East Lothian to better manage their home energy use and save money on bills, Colin Beattie MSP, National Energy Action (NEA) and Smart Energy GB have teamed up to collate a list of simple things we can all do to make a positive difference.
 
They may be small, but these quick and easy steps could save households over £80 a year.
 
For millions of households across Great Britain, getting a smart meter installed has allowed them to keep track of their energy use and see how the small changes they make can bring energy bills down.
 
While lockdown measures may affect when your smart meter can be installed, contacting your energy supplier to find out about getting one is an easy step towards better energy management.
 
In the meantime, here are 8 simple ways you could save energy and money, this winter according to Smart Energy GB and NEA.
 
8 quick energy saving tips

• You can save around £30 a year just by remembering to turn your appliances off standby mode.
• Only boil the water you need in your kettle. This can save you £6 a year.
• Don’t leave your mobile phone on charge all night – most only need a couple of hours.
• Using a bowl to wash up instead of running the tap could save you £25 a year.
• Spending one minute less in the shower every day as part of your grooming routine will save up to £7 per person off your household energy bill each year.
• Cover your pots and pans – the water will boil faster and use less energy.
• Switch off lights when not in use. This could save your household £14 a year.
• Use a microwave to heat a small amount of food, rather than a gas or electric hob.

 
 
 
Colin Beattie MSP said:
 
“It’s a positive sign that so many people in Midlothian and East Lothian are upgrading to a smart meter installed and managing their energy use at home more efficiently.
 
“With colder weather upon us, it’s more important than ever that there is help and advice available on keeping our homes warm for those that need it. Using these quick and simple tips is an easy way to reduce bills and alleviate some of the financial pressure households may be facing during these unprecedented times.”
 
Robert Cheesewright, Director of Communications at Smart Energy GB, said: “During these difficult times, we know that people may be worried about their energy bills but it’s also important that you use the energy you need to keep warm, safe and healthy at home.
 
“It’s why we’ve worked together with National Energy Action to provide these tips to help manage energy consumption during a time when increased consumption is inevitable and we know people may be struggling.”
 
To request a smart meter, contact your energy supplier.
 
If you’re struggling to pay your bills you can get in touch with your energy supplier to find out what support they can offer you. You can also visit Citizen’s Advice at Citizensadvice.org.uk or call them on 0808 223 1133 for more help and information.