Desire for cheaper energy bills 'sees people go green'

As more Britons make moves to lead more energy efficient lifestyles in order to gain cheaper gas and electricity bills, one writer has suggested that going green is now the mainstream.

Francesca Steele, in an article for the Times, has claimed that such action has been taken in order to counter any possible future rises in gas and electricity bills.

But what steps can Britons take to lead more energy efficient lives?

Going green at home

Energy efficiency is something which can begin at home, with Ms Steele noting that a good place to start is with boosting existing loft and cavity wall insulation.

Such a move could see £250 being halved through lower gas quotes, as with more heat being retained inside the home, households could be less reliant on their central heating.

Draught-proofing windows and doors should also be a consideration, she adds, stating that such simple steps need to be carried out before people consider larger investments, such as renewable energy technology.

And central heating systems could also be made more efficient by placing a reflective panel behind them to disperse heat around a room.

Good for bills and the environment

Ms Steele speaks to co-author of the Old House Handbook Roger Hunt which offers advice to Britons on how they can make their homes greener, whatever the age of the building.

"The bottom line is that eco homes can make a difference to the homeowner. They are cheaper and more comfortable to live in. They will also help the entire population to become more energy secure, so that we can worry less about unsustainable sources running out," he explained.

So by investing in energy efficiency, Britons will not only be benefiting from cheaper gas and electricity bills, but also lower emissions.

This could be beneficial after the Committee on Climate Change detailed more ways which could help the UK lower its carbon emissions, including boosting insulation.