Energy bills remain one of the biggest household expenses for most UK families, and while wholesale prices have fallen from their 2022 highs, bills are still significantly higher than they were five years ago. The good news is there are practical steps you can take right now to reduce what you pay.
- Switch to a fixed tariff if the price is right
- Small behavioural changes that add up
- Check what grants and schemes you are entitled to
- Consider a smart meter
Switch to a fixed tariff if the price is right
The energy price cap sets the maximum rate suppliers can charge on variable tariffs, but fixed tariffs can sometimes offer savings — particularly if you expect prices to rise. Use a comparison site like Uswitch or MoneySupermarket to compare current deals, and do not assume your existing supplier offers the best rate.
Small behavioural changes that add up
Turning your thermostat down by just one degree can reduce your heating bill by up to 10% annually — saving around £100 to £150 for a typical home. Washing clothes at 30 degrees instead of 60 uses around 40% less electricity. Switching off devices at the wall rather than leaving them on standby can save £30 to £80 per year.
Draught-proofing is one of the cheapest and most effective home improvements available. Sealing gaps around doors and windows typically costs under £100 to do yourself and can save up to £45 per year — paying for itself in just a few years.
Check what grants and schemes you are entitled to
The UK government runs several schemes to help households reduce energy costs. The Warm Home Discount provides a £150 rebate on electricity bills for eligible lower-income households. The Energy Company Obligation (ECO) scheme funds free insulation and heating upgrades for eligible properties.
The Great British Insulation Scheme provides grants for cavity wall and loft insulation for households in lower council tax bands. Many of these schemes are underused simply because people do not know they exist.
Consider a smart meter
Smart meters give you real-time data on your energy use in pounds and pence, making it much easier to identify what is costing you the most. They are available free from your energy supplier. Some energy tariffs also offer cheaper rates at off-peak times, which smart meter users can take advantage of.
Bottom line
Reducing your energy bills does not require major upheaval. A combination of switching to the best available tariff, making simple behavioural changes, and claiming any grants you are entitled to can save a typical UK household several hundred pounds per year.