Energy conservation has climbed to the top of the agenda for households in the UK, as a concerning increase in outstanding energy bill payments coincides with a surge in the energy price cap. Thanks in large part to the fallout of the ongoing energy crisis, energy bills have soared, sparking anxieties over managing costs. Now, energy specialist Sergey Ogorodnov, CEO of Voltaware, has suggested four key strategies for effectively minimising household energy use, offering relief to those feeling the pinch of surging energy costs.

The first of these strategies involves upgrading to energy-efficient lightbulbs. "Each bulb is an avenue for an energy-saving alternative to help save on your next energy bill," says Ogorodnov. Indeed, LED bulbs can consume up to 90% and 60% less energy than traditional incandescent and CFL bulbs respectively, potentially saving consumers £3 annually per bulb replaced. Replacing a whole house’s worth of lightbulbs can therefore make a sizeable impact on an energy bill.

Ogorodnov’s second recommendation involves making long-term investments in energy-efficient appliances, despite the potentially daunting costs. Energy-efficient dishwashers, for instance, can reduce water and energy consumption by 20-50%, potentially saving households between £74 and £138 every year. In addition, replacing continually-running appliances such as refrigerators with more energy-efficient alternatives can also yield substantial savings, amounting to an average of £190 per year, and as much as £300 depending on the current model.

The third tip emphasises ensuring a house is well-insulated, to prevent unnecessary heating. "Without sufficient sealing, money is essentially leaking out of every window, door, and overlooked crevice in your home," warns Ogorodnov. According to Voltaware, taking steps such as draught-proofing windows and doors, and insulating hot water cylinders, can save homeowners £50 per year and £320 per year respectively.

The fourth recommendation centres around smarter usage of radiators. Leaving an electric radiator on throughout the day can result in exorbitant bills at the end of the month. Instead, Ogorodnov suggests using a radiator in shorter periods as needed, significantly reducing energy usage and expenditure. Furthermore, reducing a thermostat by just 1°C can save 10% on a heating bill, proving every degree indeed matters.

Through implementing these simple energy-saving tips, households can take control of their energy usage and potentially make substantial savings. This offers a feasible and practical solution to the challenge of rising energy costs, helping consumers better manage their energy use in an environmental and cost-effective manner, Ogorodnov says.

Voltaware is a London-based energy startup focused on revolutionising the way people interact with their energy use, and gives them the visibility to optimise their energy use. Using data from smart meters or the Voltaware sensors, Voltaware provides a range of AI-driven appliance-level insights, helping consumers take the best actions to save energy and costs.