24 October 2012

How’s Big Energy Saving Week going so far?

And after last weeks fuss over forcing energy companies to put you on the best tariff it's all gone quiet. Swap suppliers now and get £20 cashback.

Possibly a little overshadowed by the Prime Minister's announcements last week but it's day 3 of Big Energy Saving Week. Sponsored by the big 6 energy companies (who pass on the costs to us through higher bills) and delivered primarily by the Citizens Advice Bureau.

The more cynical amongst us may make a connection between the start of Energy Saving Week and the timing of price rises from the big Energy companies that fund it.

Somewhat surprisingly the emphasis on Energy Saving Week seems to be more on getting the best deal with your energy company or swapping to a new supplier with advice on reducing your energy consumption coming in a poor third.

After home insulation, their five top tips for saving energy are:

• turn your thermostat down by one degree
• use energy efficient light bulbs
• switch lights off when you leave a room
• don't leave appliances on stand-by
• unplug chargers when not in use

Assuming you've already done the insulation and save energy where you can and have already turned the thermostat down to the minimum level you are comfortable at, the best course of action is reduce your bills by ensuring you are on the best tariff.

If possible, you should pay your bills by monthly direct debit, it's the cheapest way with all the energy companies. Next step is to understand how much energy you use. Obviously you can't tell whether this winter will be colder than last but close examination of your bill should reveal how much gas and electricity you use. Take these figures together with your postcode to the MoneyMaxim energy comparison service and find the best deal for you. Be aware though, that many of the table leading variable rate tariffs will be from the energy companies that have not yet announced price increases.

First:Utility's iSave V12 does include a price promise to not increase their price for 3 months, after which you can swap without penalty.