As the colder months draw in, households and businesses across Northern Ireland continue to navigate the cost-of-living crisis, amid ongoing volatility in global energy markets. With this in mind, the Utility Regulator has teamed up with the Consumer Council for Northern Ireland to help local consumers save money on their energy bills this winter.
Raymond Gormley, Head of Energy Policy at the Consumer Council for Northern Ireland says, “We recognise that many households and businesses across Northern Ireland are still struggling with high energy prices.
“To help, there are some simple but effective steps that consumers can take to save money on their energy bills this coming winter.”
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Here are just seven:
Switch off appliances when not in use
Ensuring that you don’t leave household appliances, like microwaves and TVs, on standby is an easy win for lowering your energy bills and becoming more eco-friendly.
Boil only as much water as you need
When using the kettle, try to save energy by only boiling the amount of water you need for your cup of tea or coffee. Boiling a full kettle every time could be costing you more unnecessarily.
Turn down your water temperature
If you find the water coming out of your taps is very hot, you could be wasting gas. Try turning the water temperature on your boiler down a few degrees until you reach an optimum heat.
Adjust the thermostat in your refrigerator
Try adjusting the thermostat in your refrigerator to the recommended setting. Overcooling your fridge can waste electricity and rack up unnecessary costs over time.
Do some draught-proofing
Draught-proofing your property is one of the cheapest and most efficient ways to save energy and money. To do this effectively, simply block any unwanted gaps that let cold air in, such as those under interior doors, letterboxes and keyholes. This will help your home to retain warm air.
Consider switching supplier, billing method or tariff
Did you know that you could save money by switching supplier, billing method or tariff? Check out the Consumer Council for Northern Ireland’s price comparison tools and tables* to compare tariffs and find the best deal for your needs.
Seek support from your current supplier if you are struggling to pay your energy bills
If you are struggling to pay your electricity or gas bill, there is help available. If you find yourself in this situation, try reaching out to your supplier to make them aware of your circumstances and to discuss available options.
Roisin McLaughlin, Head of Energy Futures at the Utility Regulator advises, “At the Utility Regulator, our aim is to protect the short and long-term interests of consumers of electricity, gas and water. We strive to support consumers to keep their bills as low as possible, whilst being able to heat and power their homes throughout the year.
“If you are worried about paying for your electricity or gas this winter, help is available. We would urge you to contact your supplier in the first instance, to let them know about your circumstances, and talk through what they can do to support you.
“We would also encourage you to reach out to some of the many agencies that can provide you with free and independent advice.
“These include Advice NI, Christians Against Poverty, the Consumer Council for Northern Ireland and Money and Pensions Service’s MoneyHelper.”
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