EASY TECH HACKS TO CUT ENERGY BILLS
It’s hard to be sure of anything these days, but if there’s one thing we can say with confidence, it’s that your energy bills aren’t going to be getting cheaper any time soon.
The UK (and beyond) is in the midst of an energy crisis, with a combination of factors sending the wholesale cost of energy up to frightening levels. That’s already forced several of the smaller energy companies – often those with the cheapest tariffs – to the wall, with several more predicted to follow. Suddenly, millions of people are paying hundreds of pounds a year more for their energy, with an increase to the price cap due early in 2022.
In short, we’ve never had greater motivation to get our energy consumption under control. With winter now upon us, it’s the most expensive time of the year for energy – and the time when making small changes can make a big difference.
In this feature, we’ve got tons of easy ways to curb energy spending and keep those bills down. No individual tip is going to instantly save you hundreds of pounds, but lots of little savings here and there can most certainly make a significant difference.
If you’re willing to get fully stuck into the energy saving, Real World Computing columnist Paul Ockenden also delivers a series of more advanced tips that require either an investment of time, money or both. You’ll find those on p33.
PUT SMART PLUGSON POWER GUZZLERS
Smart plugs are a cheap investment these days. The most cursory of Amazon searches will reveal devices for around £10 per unit. They could easily pay back that investment within a year if you attach them to devices that
