Here in Bristol, action is already being taken across the city to reduce our energy usage.

For example Bristol City Council has improved the energy efficiency of over 10,000 homes in the city and invested over £60m in low-carbon projects including wind, solar, heat networks, electric vehicle charging and domestic and commercial energy efficiency.

So what can you can take to lower your home’s energy usage? A few ideas to get you started:

• Turn off routers, chargers and screens at night – this saves a surprising amount of electricity 
• Wash only full loads in the washing machine, using a lower temperature
• Hang laundry outside rather than tumble-drying
• The single biggest thing you can do (in most homes) is insulate
• Change your appliance to ones with an A+ energy rating – especially fridges, freezers and cookers.
• Focus on hot water – shorter showers, less full kettles…
• Turn your thermostat down to 18 degrees and layer up warm clothes and socks

Note: For health and other reasons, some households will not be able to turn the thermostat as low as 18. Do not risk your health or wellbeing through being cold.

These measures can lower your bills, so it’s a win for the environment and a win for your wallet.

Don’t stop there – there’s many more ideas on reducing energy use around the home