Energy efficiency and clean energy solutions
Energy efficiency and clean energy solutions within our homes and businesses not only saves money, but can contribute in a positive, sustainable way towards tackling the climate emergency.
Below are short, medium and longer-term suggestions from the Energy Saving Trust, an independent organisation working towards smart, decarbonised and decentralised energy solution.
Quick tips to save energy
Take a look at our quick tips and see how you could save on your bills. Read more
Heating your Business
By taking control of your heating and improving the efficiency of your heating system, you can reduce your fuel bills as well as lower your carbon emissions. Read more.
Reducing heat loss
Installing insulation or draught-proofing will reduce heat loss. Read more.
Buying energy efficient products
Find out how you can save on your bills once you have purchased energy efficient products and how to dispose of older, less efficient products. Read more.
Find out what type of renewable energy is right for you
It’s possible to generate your own power. Read more.
More ways to save:
Advice, tools and calculators to help save energy, and the cost of roof and loft insulation. Read more
Installing solar saves between 1.2 and 1.7 tonnes of carbon dioxide per year (UK data). Read more
Smart meters – energy saving future. Read more
Energy efficient lighting. Read more
More ways to save energy
[ ] Turn off all lights and appliances such as computers, monitors, printers, and televisions when not in use and overnight.
[ ] Switch light bulbs to LED.
[ ] When it’s time to replace appliances/equipment, choose the most energy efficient models you can afford.
[ ] Install natural light sensors which will turn lights off automatically if the natural light in the area reaches a certain level.
[ ] Consider lighting from the perspective of avoiding light pollution and enhancing the dark skies.
[ ] Slightly reduce the temperature on your thermostats (even a one degree change save energy and reduces annual costs without really affecting comfort). Adjust thermostatic timers to coincide with opening hours.
[ ] Install thermostatic radiator valves if you don’t already have them.
[ ] Draught-proof windows and doors to reduce heat loss.
[ ] Close curtains and blinds to reduce overnight heat loss. Use the thickest curtains you can afford to minimise heat loss during the evening/night.
[ ] Undertake a full insulation audit to make sure your building is as well insulated and draught-proofed as possible.
[ ] Install shades/blinds on south-facing windows to reduce temperatures in summer and reduce the need to use air conditioning and fans.
[ ] Only boil the amount of water you need each time you use your kettle. Switch to an eco-kettle next time you buy a new one.
[ ] Clean your fridge coils and seals regularly to reduce your energy bill and extend the life of your fridge. Dust or dirt on the coils means the fridge uses more energy and will eventually break down.
[ ] Install low energy hand dryers.
[ ] Consider switching to a renewable energy supplier. We recommend Octopus Energy.
[ ] Install a smart energy meter to monitor usage and save costs.
[ ] Measure your carbon footprint and understand your environmental impact, with a view to reducing your carbon footprint. You could use the Carbon Trust’s SME Carbon Footprint Calculator or the World Wildlife Fund Footprint Calculator.
[ ] Consider the installation of solar or thermal panels and a ground/air source heat pump.
[ ] Make more use of the eco settings on your washing machine. Try to wash at 30 degrees whenever possible.
[ ] Consider how you can reduce washing frequency and temperatures for washing bed and bath linens.