One in ten Brits put off by perceived 'green' cost
Tuesday, 4 October 2011 12:00 AM
More than one in ten Brits worry that going 'green' is too expensive and that more energy efficient products are a waste of money.
Despite rocketing energy bills, up by on average £224 a year, consumers are yet to be convinced that going green can be a money saving solution, according to new research by uSwitch.com.
Kevin Sears, energy efficiency expert at uSwitch.com, acknowledged that many consumers were keen to cut back their energy usage in light of the higher prices.
However he added: "There is still a common fear that energy efficiency costs the earth and that the outlay will outstrip any savings. But with some measures saving more within just one year than the initial cost, being more energy efficient can benefit your bank balance as well as the environment."
Although 11 per cent do not think the extra expense on green products is worthwhile nearly six in ten people (59 per cent) believe that it can save money.
One means of making a substantial saving is through solar panels, which 69 per cent agreed would help cut electricity bills.
But there is a popular belief held by over a third of people surveyed that solar panels are only available for those who can afford to go green.
But Mr Sears questioned this logic, pointing out that solar panels could cut yearly electricity bills by £177.
He continued: "Other measures such as insulating lofts and cavity walls for just £300 could cut your bills by £390 a year - so you'll already be quid's in after the first year.
"And for those who may struggle with these initial costs, it's worth remembering that suppliers have a pot of money to help customers make their homes more energy efficient, so it's worth speaking to them to find out whether you qualify for this help."
Alternatively uSwitch.com recommend speaking to your local energy advisory centre to see if there is money available for grants or financial help installing energy saving measures.
Other tips to help reduce energy usage include closing curtains to retain heat, setting your washing machine to 30 degrees and only boiling the amount of water you need rather than filling the kettle to the top.
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Tags:
- energy efficiency ,
- environment ,
- solar panels
