Local energy experts The Footprint Trust have welcomed the new Prime Minister’s energy package, which freezes the price cap at £2,500, rather than the proposed rise to £3,549, but the Trust still has concerns about the exact impact the freeze will have.
A large, poorly insulated home with antiquated heating systems may pay up to £6,500 pa. Also, domestic fuel oil, used in many rural homes, has no cap at the moment but the PM has pledged that a fund will be made available for those consumers, along with those in Park Homes and on network heating.
The aid package previously announced will give most consumers a package worth around £550, plus extra help for those on very low income. However, this will still not be enough for those living in poorly insulated older properties, on very low incomes, particularly young families.
The Footprint Trust’s senior energy officer, Ray Harrington-Vail, said:
“ It is important to look for sensible economies, such as zoning your home and turning off vampire appliances that are left on stand-by such as TV’s.”
“For those households who want to invest to save money, then getting an air fryer can greatly reduce cooking costs. Thermal blinds to windows are another fairly cheap solution to energy loss. The big save would be to have your home insulated if not already carried out.”
The Footprint Trust has spent the last 20 years promoting energy efficiency and last year
assisted over 2,000 households in cutting their utility bills as well as providing grants and
other help.
“The Trust welcomes the government’s commitment to solar and wind energy and green hydrogen production. This along with battery storage will help protect Britain from international market fluctuations. We are, however, concerned about the drive towards exploiting gas reserves, at a time when we need to wean away from dirty and expensive fossil fuels.”
Article continues below this advertisement “I am aware from discussions with Isle of Wight small businesses and charities that some may have faced closure and have to curtail their activities due to 500% energy price increases. This would impact jobs and lead to further poverty. We are pleased that the government is to act to freeze business and charity tariffs for 6 months. We hope that this will give time for a more far-reaching package to be researched and implemented.”
