Great Ways to Reduce Your Energy Bills

In 2010 it was widely reported that average domestic energy bills had risen to more than double the average 2003. In 2011 we have already seen hikes in electricity prices from most suppliers and huge increases in the price of heating oil. It's fair to say that energy bills are now a significant outlay for many homes and in these relatively precarious economic times are putting a noticeable financial strain on many households. With this concern in mind, here are four highly effective ways of minimising your outlay on energy for the home:

1. Solar PV

A domestic solar PV system is one of the most environmentally and financially rewarding means of generating electricity for home use. Consisting of solar panels installed onto the roof of your home, these systems are often capable of generating enough power to fulfil the energy needs of most households. In addition to heavily supplementing the electricity you draw from the National Grid they also serve as an investment in their own right. Courtesy of the Feed in Tariff system, homeowners with Solar PV systems fitted by registered installers receive money from the government for every unit of electricity they produce - whether it is used or sold back to the grid. As a result of the Feed in Tariff, a domestic solar panel installation not only vastly reduces energy bills but also generates revenue for the homeowner.

2. Consider Switching Energy Suppliers

If solar panels aren't a viable option for you then it is important to make sure that the energy that you do buy from the grid is obtained at the lowest possible cost. As with most purchases, it is sensible to 'shop around' for the best deal before committing to a supplier. A quick search on the internet will provide you with details of online only tariffs and comparison websites which can help you to find the best possible rates. Those homes which utilise both gas and electricity are likely to benefit from reduced bills if both fuels are bought from the same supplier- this isn't always the case, but it is certainly worth checking to see.

3. Insulate

More than 50% of heat in the home is lost through the walls and roof, the more you minimise this heat wastage the less power is used to maintain a comfortable temperature in the home -particularly during the winter months. Loft and cavity wall insulation can be rather costly but they are highly effective when it comes to reducing heat loss and there are an abundance of government grants available to homeowners which put these money and heat saving tools within easy reach. Even a simple draft excluder lain in front of the door can save around £20 a year in terms of heating costs.

4. Don't just Standby - Switch Off

Many appliances and electronic items such as televisions and computers continue to utilise a fair amount of power when in standby mode. Simply making an effort to switch these pieces of equipment off at the wall can result in considerable energy savings - and indeed extend the lifespan of your gadgets and gizmos.

Investing in a domestic solar PV system is a sure-fire way to radically reduce your energy bills and in doing so receive guaranteed revenue. Similarly, cavity wall insulation and loft insulation will make a noticeable dent in the amount you spend to keep your home well heated. Both of these initiatives require an outlay upfront which may be slightly off-putting to some, but the long-term benefits and savings more than cover the initial costs. The other tips above can and should be implemented by all given their minimal outlay in terms of both time and money.


------

Written by Jamie Lyons for Solar Powered News with assistance from Solarlec Solar
Panels