Householders urged to cut energy costs

OLDHAMERS could save £5.2 million a year if all households turned down their thermostat by just one degree.

And £4 million could be saved by using energy saving lightbulbs instead of traditional ones.

Only filling the kettle with the amount needed would save £646,000 and turning appliances off, instead of leaving them on standby, would save £3,300,000.

These are only some of the ways households could help local councils meet government targets to cut CO2 emissions year-on-year by between 4 and 15 per cent.

At a conference in Manchester next week, Energy Saving Trust chief executive Philip Sellwood will call on councils to remember their commitment to reduce household carbon dioxide emissions.

Mr Sellwood said: “With 2009 set to be a difficult year for the local, UK and global economy, there is a danger that local authorities take their eyes off the ball when it comes to their commitment to reducing carbon emissions.

“The Energy Saving Trust is working with a number of local authorities across the region to provide advice on how to implement sustainable energy initiatives for its residents.

“Councils are uniquely placed to deliver change but cannot do it alone. The conference will look at mobilising communities and businesses to take action.”

Speakers at the climate change conference will include Local Government Association vice-chairman Sir Jeremy Beecham, Mayor of Miami Manny Diaz and chief government scientific adviser Professor Michael Kelly.

The Energy Saving Trust offers advice and support, such as presentations, workshops and consultancy, to local authorities across the country.

The two-day conference starts next Wednesday at the Lowry Hotel, Salford Quays.