Use less, save more truer than ever in cooling economy

Energy Section writes that US homeowners are facing, on average, increases in their winter heating costs of around 15%, caused by price increases and cooler temperatures.

Gas, which accounts for 50% of American households heating fuel looks set to increase by around 18%. Those in the know reckon it will cost the average American household $1,700 this year, compared with two years ago.

The article goes on to point out that whilst it is easier to save money by using less thanks to modern energy saving technology and appliances, many Americans will have little option but to use less overall.

Of course using less is just one way of not only reducing your energy bills but your energy usage as well and contributing to a greener environment.

Using less is becoming the 'order of the day' rather than a hopeful money saving tactic used by a minority. Read the full report here.

photo credit: tvol

White Wednesday.

As I sit writing this, it's minus 3 outside and there's another foot of snow forecast to fall and join the foot and a half of snow that's already laying about.

It's literally White Wednesday - the 1st December 2010.

I was planning a long piece about keeping warm during the bad weather but the Government website (and many others) have that pretty well covered. It's good advice and if we're still in the grips of an icy winter, then take a moment to read up.

Click here.

Stay warm folks and it goes without saying that if you have elderly neighbours, then a quick call to see they're alright is a mighty nice gesture.

photo credit: bryn pinzgauer

How warm is your office?

Quick post (suggested by an original ReTweet on Twitter) - How warm is your office?

If no-one's bothered to check the thermostats after the cold spell, then maybe you could contribute to the global savings being made by turning your office heating dial down a degree or two?

If you've individual heaters across an open-plan style office, then make sure they're all on the same setting otherwise they'll engage in their own battle of heat and cold, where the only winners will be the energy companies.

photo credit: victoria peckham

Poll suggests half of Scottish people unaware of Scottish Government grants for heating this winter

New survey reveals Scots worries at affording heating bills this Winter...

"A new survey has found that four in ten (41 per cent) Scots are worried about being able to afford their home heating bills this winter.

And more than half (56 per cent) know someone else that will struggle to do so, such as a grandparent, elderly relative, neighbour or friend.

The results of the survey of 1,045 Scottish people - commissioned by the Energy Saving Trust - coincide with the launch of a Scotland-wide TV advertising campaign for the Energy Assistance Package - a new initiative that will provide real financial and environmental benefits to Scots struggling to heat their homes this winter.

The poll findings reveal that around half of Scottish people (52 per cent) do not know that the Scottish Government offers grants and assistance to help people heat their home."

To read the full story and find out more about Scottish Government grants, click here.

Don't forget to check in on elderly or vulnerable neighbours this winter. It only takes a few moments but can really make a difference. Whilst you're there, why not check their smoke alarms work? They probably can't reach them to test.

photo credit: dmclear