A family-of-four have revealed how their electricity bill is costing just £16 per month as the energy price cap increases across the UK today (1 October).
Between now and 31 December, the average household is set to fork out a maximum of £1,717 per year on their dual-fuel bill.
The £149 increase, set by energy regulator Ofgem, only applies to those paying via standard credit, direct debit, a prepayment meter or an Economy 7 meter.
But James Smith, 37, has revealed how he, his wife and their two kids [not named for privacy reasons] have cut their electricity bill down to just £16 per month throughout summer.
And throughout winter, they expect this to rise to only £100 per month.
“With the ongoing cost of living crisis, affording the bills each month was a very real worry,” the finance director, from London, told What’s The Jam.
“My wife and I thought that switching to renewable energy could be an easy way to ease our concerns.
“Switching to solar has certainly taken the pressure off – particularly with the ongoing uncertainty with electricity prices.
“It’s brilliant knowing that we are generating so much energy which is ‘free’ to use when we need it.
“Using a renewable energy source has had a hugely positive impact on our finances.
“We’re saving money each month and we tend to use this as a family to go out for a meal, to the cinema or go on a weekend trip.
“Or even saving for something we’ve wanted for the house.”
James paid £6,000 in total for the installation of solar panels on his new build in August 2022, spread across monthly payments, which they’ve offset with their energy bill savings.
The family claim they’ve been able to save 10,000 kilowatts of energy – the equivalent of powering 100,000 100-watt light bulbs.
He also says the amount of “free” energy stored up in their home could boil the kettle to make 103,698 cups of tea or use the air fryer for a staggering 6,666 hours.
And while many are put off on the eco-friendly energy source due to the look, James believes his home looks greater than ever.
He said: “You read and see horror stories of ugly solar panels dominating rooftops, however, I have been positively surprised.
“I don’t feel that they impact the look of my home at all.
“It only took a couple of days for the panels to be installed and once they were finished, I thought they looked even better in real life – they honestly blend into the roof really well.”
James estimates without the use of solar energy, his winter bill would be an estimated £300 per month – or more.
He recommends all families to consider having these renewable energy panels installed and to contact So Energy on how to go about the process.
The dad added: “Even though energy prices are rising, I feel far more at ease knowing that a significant portion of my energy needs will still be met by the solar panels.
“With the cost of living continuing to rise, I can’t recommend going solar enough.
“There’s an initial cost, but when you factor in how much you save each month, it’s well worth it.
“I think a lot of people are feeling trapped by their energy bills right now, but solar can give them back some control.
“It’s a long-term investment that not only cuts costs, but also adds value to your home.
“Plus, it’s a great feeling to know you’re doing something positive for the environment while also taking care of your finances.”
Consumer energy expert at So Energy, Stuart Middleton, has also offered his expert tips and tricks to tighten the purse strings, while only making changes to everyday habits.
SWITCH OFF
Aside from turning off the lights, it’s also vital to switch off electrical appliances that aren’t in use.
He said: “Phantom energy refers to the amount of power used behind the scenes.
“And it’s estimated that approximately 10% of the average household energy bill is made up of this type of usage.
“Consider going one step further and remembering to unplug TVs, microwaves and phone chargers.”
CHECK EFFICIENCY
Build of limescale in kettles or under-loading the washing machine can impact how efficiently appliances are working – and this can lead to an uptick in costs.
Stuart said: “Be sure to clean [these machines] regularly, and even check the position of your fridge.
“If it’s located near a window or oven, it may be absorbing extra heat and working harder to keep your food cold.
“It’s also a good idea to wipe down the coils at the back every now and again, to prevent dust build up that can slow it down.
“Also, avoid pre-heating your oven, as it’s actually more efficient to put food in the oven when turning it on and add a few minutes to cooking time.”
AVOID DRYING CLOTHES ON RADIATORS
While tempting, especially as it can allow for a warm and toasty treat to put on during the colder months, this can actually reduce the heat being provided to your home.
He said: “[Drying wet clothes] can block heat from leaving the radiator, making the appliance significantly less efficient – and therefore hiking up your bill.
“Instead, opt for a heated clothes airer.
“These are easily available and cheap to run, and will prevent radiator heat getting blocked, [allowing it] to move around the room.”
READ MORE: ‘I worked in a supermarket for years – these staff secrets will save you money’
