Small energy efficiency changes have big impact

Monday, 23 October 2006 12:00 AM

Homeowners are being called upon this week to make their property more energy efficient to reduce the country's carbon emissions.

Launched at the start of Energy Saving Week (October 23rd to 29th), a new report finds small changes can make a big difference, as well as highlighting widespread misconceptions about cutting down on energy waste.

The research from Premier Guarantee shows making simple changes such as swapping regular light bulbs for energy-saving versions, will dramatically improve the energy rating of a property.

And it warns energy efficiency will become even more important next year when Home Information Packs will say how efficient a home is.

As well as energy-saving light bulbs, other small changes homeowners can make include a buying a jacket for a hot water tank (£10), which will save £20 per year, and installing pipe insulation (£30), which will save £10 a year.

The report also shows new homes are being built to meet very high eco standards, with good insulation, double glazing, A-rated appliances, and at least two rooms with light fittings adapted to take low wattage light bulbs.

Robin Plaster, managing director of Premier Guarantee, commented: "It is a common misconception that improving the energy efficiency of an older property is very expensive. While some more drastic measures, such as installing solar panels or wind turbines would be costly for the average homeowner, smaller changes such as using energy saving light bulbs, insulation and double glazing can make a big difference.

"While house builders are doing their bit to make sure all new homes are energy-efficient, individual homeowners must take responsibility for bringing older properties into line. Big changes need to occur of the UK is to reach its Kyoto target of generating ten per cent renewable energy by 2010 and 20 per cent by 2020."

According to the Energy Saving Trust, if every home in the UK installed just one energy-saving light bulb, there would be major savings in CO2 emissions.

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