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Soaring Energy Prices Force Consumers To Be Appliance Savvy

Energy bills have soared to a record high with electricity prices up by 7.2% and gas prices by 15.7%.
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Five of the six big energy suppliers have raised their prices this summer, with electricity up 7.2% and gas by 15.7%. The hikes have come after suppliers have announced significant profit, in some cases an increase in 130% for the first half of 2011. Consumers need to be aware of ways to save energy to avoid the hikes, and could save an extra 14% per year off their bills if they replace old, inefficient appliances with new, energy efficient ones.

Consumers are unaware that replacing their old worn out appliances could reduce their utility bills every year as well as their carbon footprint. Replacing a large 10 year fridge-freezer for a brand new one could save £24 per year and enough CO2 to fill a double decker bus. Replacing a large washing machine could save enough CO2 to fill 16 fire extinguishers and replacing a large electric oven could save enough CO2 to fill two builders’ skips.

When choosing a new appliance, consumers should be aware of the Energy Saving Trust Recommended label, which indicates which products will save the most energy in the home. Products with this label have to meet strict energy performance criteria so consumers can rest assured that they are getting the best for their money. The criteria that products have to meet in order to become EST recommended is set by an independent panel and reviewed annually to ensure consumers get the most up to date choices.

. Introduction:

Energy price hikes have sparked a heated discussion this summer, with five out of the big six suppliers raising their tariff prices despite announcing significant profits. In the lead up to the winter months, consumers need to be thinking of ways to save money and also do their bit for the environment. The easiest way to do this is by looking for the Energy Saving Trust Recommended label when buying new products and also by considering replacing worn out appliances – by simply replacing a large 10 year old fridge-freezer you could save £24 per year off your bill and enough CO2 to fill a double decker bus!

So, how can consumers be appliance savvy in the lead up to winter?

Joining us to discuss this further is Jessica Forster, an Energy Saving Trust Energy Doctor.

. Suggested Questions:

What does the research reveal about energy consumption in our area?

How much money and CO2 could consumers potentially save if they updated their old, worn out appliances?

What should consumers look for when choosing new appliances?

What advice do you have for consumers who are worried about the pinch as we move into winter?

What work does the Energy Saving Trust do to help consumers - and with so many outlets out there, which would you recommend going to?

Where can we find out more information?