State pensioners urged to claim free £147 after Winter Fuel Payment axed

State pensioners urged to claim free £147 after Winter Fuel Payment axed
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A household hack could save you £147 a year on your energy bills. Renewable energy surveyor, Sean Slawson, of Geo Green Power highlighted the issue of so-called vampire devices after the Ofgem price cap rose by £147 this October.

He explained in a warning to UK households and British Gas, OVO, EDF, EON and Octopus customers: "Devices in standby mode still consume energy, and reducing this can lead to surprising savings. Televisions, computers, and gaming consoles are major contributors to so-called 'vampire' energy consumption.

"Research shows Brits could save an average of £147 per household annually by switching off ‘vampire devices’ - those that continue to drain power when left on standby - when not in use. To reduce ‘vampire’ energy, get into a habit of unplugging devices or use smart power strips that cut power automatically.

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"You can also check if your TV has energy-saving features like automatic shut-off or screen dimming to help lower your energy bill." He said: "Even during the winter months a household with solar panels will be generating their own energy and using less from the grid."

He said: "It’s never been cheaper to install solar. The energy crisis created huge global demand and manufacturing of solar panels and other installation materials significantly increased; the result has been a significant dip in the cost of a solar PV system. If you received a quote to install solar a year or so ago, I strongly recommend you revisit."

He also went on and added: "If creating a sustainable home is important to you, consider switching to a heat pump. Heat pumps capture heat from the air, ground or water and boost the temperature to provide heat and hot water.

"Not only are they environmentally friendly, they are highly energy efficient, have a long lifespan and you may be eligible to receive a Government grant to help cover installation costs through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme."