Groups from Purbeck have put together energy saving tips, practical advice and information on financial support.
Tough times present an opportunity for us all to do our bit - reducing waste & being kinder to the planet!
*Estimated by the Energy Saving Trust
Find draughts and stop them – doors, windows and letterboxes, floorboards, skirting boards. Search: DIY draught proofing
35% of heat escapes through the roof – is your insulation thick enough?
If you don’t have double glazing you can put on secondary glazing insulation film for £10 - £20 a window.
Cavity wall insulation can save £395 a year.*
Did you know anyone can get free energy advice and a survey? www.healthyhomesdorset.org.uk
Energy performance surveys cost around £75. Find an assessor on www.gov.uk/get-new-energy-certicate
For £120 The Heating Hub provides an energy efficiency review. www.theheatinghub.co.uk
Anyone in your home under 5, over 65, on benefits or has a health condition? If the property is poorly insulated there may be a grant.
There are grants for homeowners, and for landlords to improve properties for their tenants.
www.healthyhomesdorset.org.uk 0300 003 7023
www.ridgewaterenergy.co.uk 01202 612726
* Energy Saving Trust estimate based on a semi-detached house and October 2022 gas prices
Centre for Sustainable Energy www.cse.org.uk
YouTube Heat Geek, especially ‘11 Easy Ways to Reduce your Energy Bills’
www.moneysavingboilerchallenge.com
www.greenmatch.co.uk Energy-saving options and quotes from 4 installers
www.gov.uk/improve-energy-eciency 0800 444 202
Energy Advisers and access to grants
Dorset Adviceline www.edpcitizensadvice.org.uk 0800 144 8848 10am-4pm weekdays
Energy Line energy@edpcitizensadvice.org.uk 01929 775500
Local Citizens Advice drop-ins:
Wareham, Mill Lane, Tuesday and Thursday 10am-12pm
Herston Village Hall, first and third Monday of the month, 10am-12pm
Swanage Library, Wednesday 10am-12pm (except first in the month)
If you do have some money to spare investing in energy-saving measures can make savings.
Solar panels with a battery can halve the electricity imported from the grid.*
Air-to-air heat pumps start around £500.
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme gives a £5K grant towards air-source heat pump installation.
* Experience of a Purbeck resident over a year
Secondhand electric vehicles are becoming much more affordable.
A typical saving of 30% - 60% per mile and you’ll get an MOT and full service for under £100. www.drive-green.co.uk