As summer fades, it’s tempting to put off thinking about winter. However, with the ongoing cost of living crisis, preparing early to reduce your winter energy bills can make all the difference. Here are the top three reasons why you should start planning now:
1. Avoid bill shock
The energy price cap is set to rise by 9% this October, taking the average energy bill up to £1714. With energy prices recently increasing, waiting until the last minute can leave you scrambling to cover the extra costs. By planning ahead, you can set aside a small amount each week to cushion the impact when those larger bills arrive.
2. Beat the rush for financial support schemes
There are over 2500 financial support schemes available via the Lightning Reach portal from local authorities, charities, energy companies, housing associations and many more. This includes a range of grants to help with your energy bills and home essentials. Grants can take a few weeks to be paid out, so apply early to get support ahead of the cold months.
Check out Darren’s story here, who received over £200 per month to reduce his energy bills through Lightning Reach.
3. Reducing bills through energy-saving measures takes time
Energy saving home upgrades can take time to install, so take action now to ensure they’re in place before your bills increase this winter. Government-backed schemes provide home insulation and energy-saving upgrades, which can save you up to 30% on your energy bills. These include the Great British Insulation Scheme and Energy Company Obligation (ECO4).
How to get ahead for winter
Don’t let winter catch you off guard. By planning now, you can reduce stress, take full advantage of available support, and keep your home warm without breaking the bank. There are plenty of organisations on the Lightning Reach portal who can advise and provide support ahead of winter, including:
National Energy Action: National Energy Action helped over 2,000 users, providing crucial resources and guidance to reduce energy costs.
SHINE’s Energy Doctor and Debt Relief: Over 200 individuals received energy advice and debt relief of up to £300 last year, helping them manage their energy bills effectively.
British Gas Energy Trust’s Individuals and Family Fund: Last year over 2,000 people accessed this fund via the Lightning Reach portal, which offers financial assistance to help pay off your energy debt.
Park Homes Warm Home Discount: available from the late autumn, the warm home discount provides £150 towards energy bills for residents of park homes. Last year over £2m was paid our to residents of park homes!
Create your free account on the Lightning Reach portal today to see what you might be eligible for: https://apply.lightningreach.org/
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