Households changing routines to cut energy costs

Many households are switching up their routines so they can save money on energy.

According to Smart Energy GB, nearly two-thirds of people are changing their routine to cut costs, especially their energy bills.

For example, many are switching on the washing machine at times when cheaper, off-peak energy rates come into effect.

And some are doing more batch cooking so they can use the oven less.

Nearly one in four people are thinking about the time of the day when doing high energy-consuming tasks.

Almost half said they’re willing to be more flexible specifically regarding when they do their laundry, and seven in ten are batch cooking more regularly.

Energy firms rewarding off-peak usage

Many energy providers now offer reward schemes to encourage households to use energy outside peak hours.

So not only does this reduce demand at peak times, it also helps people save money.

Octopus, for example, offers people points that can be redeemed for bill credit, or used to get cinema tickets and a free hot drink from Greggs and Caffe Nero.

British Gas, meanwhile, offers 50% off each unit of electricity used between 11am and 4pm on Sundays.

It could well be worth getting in touch with your energy provider to see if they offer a similar scheme with incentives and rewards for using power outside peak times.

According to Smart Energy GB, nearly nine in ten (87 per cent) people who’ve signed up for an energy reward scheme say they are saving money.

“Energy reward schemes can suit our changing schedules and help us save money on bills,” Smart Energy GB said.

Shop around for the best deal

Signing up for an energy reward scheme is just one way to bring down your energy bills.

Having a look on comparison sites such as Uswitch.com could help you find a much better deal and save you huge amounts in the long run.

And if you’ve fallen behind on your energy bills, then check out our guides on what help and support is available.

• What to do about energy arrears
• Grants & benefits to help pay energy bills
• Financial help from your energy supplier
• What to do if your energy supplier is trying to move you to prepayment