Energy efficiency

Are your fuel bills too high? and Tips to save energy

Recent increases in the costs of gas and electricity have made Solihull residents more aware of the amount of energy they use.

If you think your fuel bills are too high there are steps you can take:

If there is a problem with the way your bill has been calculated or if the bill is based on inaccurate meter reading estimates you should contact your utility company to discuss the situation. From 1st October 2008, Consumer Direct has offered advice on energy supply and they can be contacted on 08454 04 05 06 and may be able to help resolve any billing issues.

Saving energy will help to reduce your fuel bills. The Energy Saving Trust Advice Centre offers local householders free, impartial advice on how to save energy in their homes. This helps to make homes warmer and fuel bills more affordable as well as benefiting the environment. The Advice Centre also offers information about appropriate grant, discount and interest free loan schemes to help Solihull residents with the costs of installing energy saving measures. Call free phone 0800 512 012 for further information.

Try these simple energy saving measures:

• Turning your thermostat down by 1°C could cut your heating bills by up to 10 per cent and save you around £30 per year.
• Is your water too hot? Your cylinder thermostat shouldn't need to be set higher than 60°C/140°F.
• Close your curtains at dusk to stop heat escaping through the windows.
• Always turn off the lights when you leave a room.
• Don't leave appliances on standby and remember not to leave appliances on charge unnecessarily.
• If you're not filling up the washing machine, tumble dryer or dishwasher, use the half-load or economy programme.
• Only boil as much water as you need (but remember to cover the elements if you're using an electric kettle).
• A dripping hot water tap wastes energy and in one week wastes enough hot water to fill half a bath, so fix leaking taps and make sure they're fully turned off!
• Replace your light bulbs with energy saving recommended ones: just one can reduce your lighting costs by up to £78 over the lifetime of the bulb - and they last up to 12 times longer than ordinary light bulbs.