Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Great. A chance to loaf about, yes?
No. Energy Saving Week, which starts on Monday 27 January, is not an excuse to save your own energy, but a focus on making better use of the energy, through heating and lighting, you use in your home.
Yawn. Is this just about the importance of turning appliances off?
It's much more than that, although turning appliances off rather than leaving them in standby mode is an obvious way to save energy and cut bills. According to the Energy Saving Trust, between 9-16 per cent of the electricity consumed in homes is used to power appliances when they are on standby. On a bill of £500 this could account for £80.
OK. What else should I be doing?
There are lots of things. Get LED light bulbs, for instance. They use up to 85 per cent less energy than a Halogen 50 watt equivalent. At an average cost of £15 a year, that'd save you £12 a year on electricity costs if you use them on average 5-6 hours a day. Or get your loft insulated. It's not cheap but loft insulation will typically pay for itself in two to three years through regular savings on your winter heating bill.
If I take action, will it really save me money?
It will save you a packet. Better insulation means less heat escapes, warmer homes and lower bills. Being aware of needless energy use will help you save it. "There are lots of ways for people to improve their homes' energy performance," says James Alcock of TheGreenAge.
OK, I'm convinced. Where can I find out more?
There's lots of help and guidance on the internet. First try www.energysavingtrust.org.uk for information, advice and details about any grants you may be eligible for. Or go to www.thegreenage.co.uk/free-ways-to-save-money-on-energy-bills for a range of tips.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments