Welcome to Wandle’s energy advice page! We’re here to help you save energy, reduce your bills, and access available grants and support schemes to ease energy costs.
Below are some practical tips, helpful resources, and guidance on applying for energy support programmes.
What you can do
- Contact your energy supplier: Please talk to your energy supplier if you are struggling to pay your energy bills as they may be able to tell you about schemes and grants that may help. You can find out more in the Energy and Utilities Advice section below.
- Find out what other help is available: Many energy suppliers and utilities have their own charitable support and trust funds, so please contact your supplier to find out more
What are the best energy saving tips?
The savings illustrated here are from the Energy Savings Trust.
Electricity
- Turn off lights when not in use: Make it a habit to switch off lights when leaving a room.
- Use energy-saving light bulbs: LED bulbs last longer and could save you around £30 a year.
- Switch off appliances at the socket: Avoid standby mode for TVs, PCs, and games consoles—this could save £35 annually.
- Choose energy-efficient appliances: Look for an ‘A’ energy rating or higher to save energy and money over time.
- Wash clothes at 30–40°C: Washing at lower temperatures reduces energy use without compromising cleaning power.
- Defrost your freezer regularly: This keeps it running efficiently and prolongs its lifespan.
- Use a smart meter: Contact your energy supplier to monitor and manage your energy consumption more effectively.
- Boil only what you need: Avoid overfilling the kettle to save electricity.
Heating
- Adjust your thermostat: Lowering it by 1°C could save £55 a year.
- Seal your home: Close windows and doors when heating is on to minimize energy loss.
- Insulate your home: If possible, consider loft or wall insulation to retain heat.
Water
- Fix any dripping taps or leaks to make sure you don’t pay for water you don’t need.
- Take a shower rather than a bath. This uses far less water.
- Place a hippo/cistern bag in the cistern to reduce the amount used when you flush.
- Turn off the tap when brushing your teeth.
- Wash your vegetables in a bowl and use the left-over water to water your plants
- Use a bowl to wash up rather than running the tap.
Energy Support and Grants
HACT Energy Hardship Fund
This fund supports Wandle Housing tenants experiencing financial difficulties with energy bills. This is particularly for Wandle tenants on prepayment or top up meters.
How to apply:
- Contact residentsupport@wandle.com or email energy@wandle.com for a referral.
- Provide details of your circumstances and evidence of financial hardship.
- Your application will be reviewed, and eligible applicants will receive direct support.
Home Energy Action Team
This fund is providing support which is funded by Octopus Energy to help those most in need, and up to £150 towards fuel bills. Referrals can be made via self-referral on Octopus Referral Form.
_________________________________________________________________________
Government Energy Discount Schemes
There are several government grants and schemes in the UK that could help:
Warm Home Discount Scheme
The Warm Home Discount Scheme provides a one-off payment of £150 towards electricity bills for eligible households.
Eligibility:
- You are on a low income or receive certain benefits (e.g., Universal Credit or Pension Credit).
- Your energy supplier is part of the scheme.
How to Apply:
Other UK Government backed scheme are:
- Winter Fuel Payment: A one-off payment of up to £300 for pensioners to help with heating costs.
- Cold Weather Payment: Paid when the temperature drops below freezing for 7 consecutive days. Please find more information at gov.uk/cold-weather-payment
Energy Efficiency Grants
- ECO4 Scheme: Energy Company Obligation (ECO) funding may cover insulation or heating upgrades for low-income households.
- Local Authority Grants: Check with your council for schemes like the Green Homes Grant or other local incentives.
Charity and Community Support
_________________________________________________________________________
Get Involved with Energy Efficiency at Wandle
At Wandle, we’re committed to improving the energy efficiency of our properties and helping residents reduce costs. If you believe your home could benefit from upgrades such as loft insulation, draught-proofing, or modern heating systems, please let us know.
Contact Us
For more information, energy advice, or support:
• Email: energy@wandle.com
• Phone: 03002000120
________________________________________
External Resources
- Gov.uk Energy Support: www.gov.uk – Check your eligibility for grants and schemes.
Let’s work together to make your home energy efficient, comfortable, and affordable!