Cold snap reveals energy inefficiencies
ULSTER Unionist social development spokesperson, Billy Armstrong MLA, has said that recent cold weather will have exposed serious shortfalls in energy efficiency in many Northern Ireland homes.
“Unfortunately, once the bills come rolling in from home heating over this period, many people will get a bit of a shock. Energy efficiency measures are essential if we are to cut heating bills.
“These are tough economic times, and many people have doubtless suffered the ‘heat or eat’ quandary to some extent. Home improvements, in this context, could seem beyond the realms of possibility. However, relative to the cost of energy, such work actually isn’t, particularly when there is grant aid available.
“I would urge those in older homes to really look at how they could improve their energy efficiency - saving money and reducing emissions in the long-term. This could include loft and cavity wall insulation and also double glazing windows and doors. Given rising fuel costs, this is an investment worth making.
“Visit the Energy Saving Trust’s website at www.energysavingtrust.org.uk to find out more about what you can do to cut costs long-term. The site also has a handy tool for working out what grants you may be entitled to. For more information on the Department of Social Development’s (DSD) Warm Homes Scheme call 0800 988 0559.”
The Mid Ulster UUP MLA said he welcomed the fact that DSD is considering implementing a boiler scrappage scheme.
“Given that this is already in operation in England, I do believe that it is something that should be seriously looked at for Northern Ireland. While investigations must be done into the cost effectiveness of introducing such a scheme here, it is certainly a step in the right direction in addressing the issue of fuel poverty in these challenging times.
“In the meantime, there are a few things you can do to lighten the financial burden, including making sure radiators aren’t obstructed, drawing curtains, using energy efficient light bulbs which use less energy and last up to ten times longer than standard bulbs, and turning household appliances off at the wall when not in use. These are minor but effective ways to make a difference.”
Email to a friend
Print this page
Looking for...
Featured advertisers
Jobs
Search for a job
Motors
Search for a car
Property
Search for a house
Weather for Belfast
Friday 18 May 2012
Today
Light rain
Temperature: 6 C to 8 C
Wind Speed: 14 mph
Wind direction: North east
Tomorrow
Cloudy
Temperature: 5 C to 9 C
Wind Speed: 13 mph
Wind direction: North east
