As energy bills continue to soar along with other essential household goods, people are making efforts to cut back on energy use where possible.
Earlier this year, the Government issued a nationwide public information campaign, 'Reduce Your Use', to promote efficiency and highlight the range of supports available to households and businesses struggling with rising inflation.
The campaign was formed after the demand for energy following the pandemic, and Russia's invasion of Ukraine resulted in significant increases in the price of oil and natural gas, which led to higher retail prices for petrol, diesel, heating oil, gas and electricity.
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Energy efficiency advice, provided by experts at the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), details what actions can help to save the most money and energy.
The advice targets four key areas:
Heating
Use timers and thermostats to heat your home and hot water when you need it and to the temperature you need.
Appliances
Use cookers, tumble dryers, washing machines, showers and kettles efficiently and, where possible outside peak hours of 4-7pm.
Travel
Avoid using the car for short journeys; consider walking, cycling or public transport where available.
Driving
Drive at lower speeds, where safe and practical, to reduce your fuel use.
The campaign also highlighted the range of Government financial supports for households and businesses.
These supports include:
- 80% grants for attic and cavity wall insulation which will save the average house approximately €300 from the first year
- A reduction in VAT from 13.5% to 9% on gas and electricity bills from the start of May until the end of October, leading to estimated savings of €32 (electricity) and €11 (gas) on an average bill over six months
- A reduction to zero of the Public Service Obligation (PSO) levy on electricity bills, leading to estimated savings of €59 from October
- An Excise Duty reduction on fuel – 20c/L for petrol; 15c/L for diesel; 4.7c/L for marked gas oil / green diesel
- An increase in the Fuel Allowance of €355 – equating to €5/week, plus additional payments totalling €225
- An €8 million support fund for hauliers, providing €100 for each lorry for eight weeks
- Plus a committed €20 million in supports – for solar PV (Photo Voltaic) panels for households that have a high reliance on electricity for medical reasons
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