MILLIONS of households will be able to get free energy advice as the government launches a new website today – and it could save you hundreds.
The nation’s finances are being battered by a cost of living crisis as bills from food and fuel to energy spiral.
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Energy bills are expected to hit nearly £3,000 by the end of the year, and at least six million owe their energy supplier money.
To help households through the crisis, the government is launching a new energy advice website giving tips on how to cut your energy consumption and improve efficiency, The Sun can reveal.
It claims the average saving you could make is £300 .
But the exact amount you could save will depend on a number of factors, such as the size of your home.
To use the tool, head to the gov.uk’s energy efficiency advice portal.
The site will ask you a number of questions about your property to give you tips on what home improvements you could make.
Make sure you have details about your property to hand, including its size, whether it is detached or semi-detached, and how old it is.
You will also be asked about any upgrades you have already made, like installing a heat pump.
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You will then be given advice on how to save money – this could range from getting loft insulation and double glazing.
The site will also signpost any grants you could be eligible for to help make your home greener – such as a home upgrade grant which could be worth up to £6,000.
However, homeowners will want to be aware of the upfront costs you’ll need to pay for some green improvements – like installing solar panels and heat pumps – even with a grant in place.
Business and Energy minister Lord Callanan said: “Some of the simplest upgrades can be the most effective and now is the time to act to make sure your home is ready for the colder months.
“I am urging homeowners to get online, use this new website and see the changes you can make now that could save you hundreds of pounds on your bills this winter.”
It comes as the government has revealed the £400 energy bill discount – announced earlier this year in the former Chancellor’s cost of living budget – will be dished out in October.
Energy suppliers will pay the £400 help in six instalments over a number of months worth between £66 and £67.
But with the energy price cap set to hit £3,500 – working out at roughly £291 a month over the next year – a single payment worth less than £70 a month will hardly touch the sides.
How else can I get help on my energy bills?
Energy suppliers are offering cash grants to those hardest hit by bills rises.
For instance British Gas is giving out up to £750 through its hardship fund.
But the amount can vary according to your supplier and your circumstances.
It’s not just Universal Credit claimants who can get the help, but if you’re on the benefit and have a low income you could qualify.
Ask your supplier what’s on offer and how to apply, or check here:
You can get £150 off your energy bills with the Warm Home Discount scheme, which will open for applications later this year.
It was previously worth £140 but has been boosted by £10 for the next batch of payments – and you need to put your claim in to your supplier.
The scheme is currently closed but you should keep an eye out for it launches again later in 2022.
Some charities have a pot of cash to give out to people who are struggling to get by financially.
Turn2Us has a free grants search tool so you can find out what help is available to you.
