Green technology can save households over £1,300 a year in bills

Equipping new homes with low-carbon equipment would save the people living in them thousands of pounds on energy bills, research has shown.

Low-carbon technologies, like solar panels, emit low levels of CO2 emissions into the atmosphere by producing renewable and clean energy.

A modelling study by the MCS Foundation charity found that those living in a typical three-bedroom, semi-detached, newly built house would save £1,341 a year on average with solar panels, a heat pump, high-grade insulation and battery storage.

Over a 25-year mortgage term, this would add up to £46,612 saved.

As part of their plans for economic growth, Labour have pledged to build 1.5 million homes, but we don’t know yet whether these will meet the highest insulation standards or incorporate low-carbon technology.

Although the government is considering requiring developers to build solar panels and heat pumps into new homes, they haven’t confirmed whether they’d also mandate battery storage.

Research shows that combining solar panels and battery storage with heat pumps leads to the greatest savings for households.

Are you struggling to pay your energy bills?

Energy bills are record-high levels. But if you’re struggling to stay on top of them, there is help available.  

Talk to your energy supplier

If you can’t pay your energy bills, contact your energy supplier to find out what kind of help they offer. Ask them for more time to pay what you owe, for a payment break or reduction, or for access to any hardship funds.

Quite a few energy suppliers offer grants to help those struggling to cover their bills.  Check what financial help you might be able to get.

Your supplier is legally required to work with you to agree on a payment plan you can afford.

Household support fund

Recently, the government announced its household support fund (HSF) would be extended for at least another six months, until April 2025.

This scheme offers financial help, including help with utility bills, to households who are being severely affected by the cost-of-living crisis.

Each council offers different types of support, so it’s best to check with your local council to see what help you could get. To apply, contact your local council or fill out an application on their website.

Find out if you’re eligible for support in our HSF guide.

Check your benefits entitlement

You can check you’re getting all the benefits you’re entitled to on our website or you can give us a ring.

Do you need money help?

If you’re behind on your energy bills, it may be time to ask for help.  

Effective budgeting can make bills feel a lot more manageable. If you reach out to us, we can create a free budgeting plan for you to stay on top of your costs.

We also give free advice around applying for grants and can talk you through some options if you’re in debt. Some of our debt solutions are free, and others have a fee.