Energy Saving Trust: Your Go‑To Guide for Cutting Energy Bills

If you’ve ever looked at your energy bill and wondered why it’s so high, you’re not alone. The Energy Saving Trust (EST) is a UK‑based charity that makes saving energy simple, affordable, and even a bit fun. Their advice is built around real‑world actions you can start today, no fancy tech required.

What the Energy Saving Trust Actually Does

EST offers free tools, from online calculators that show how much a new boiler could save you, to step‑by‑step guides for sealing drafts. They partner with local councils, utilities, and businesses to bring discounts on insulation, LED lighting, and smart thermostats straight to homeowners.

One of the most popular programs is the Home Upgrade Scheme. It matches homeowners with vetted installers, guaranteeing quality work and transparent pricing. When you sign up, you’ll get a professional energy‑audit, a report that highlights the biggest money‑savers in your house, and a clear timeline for improvements.

Easy Wins You Can Start Right Now

Before you call a contractor, try these quick fixes that EST recommends:

• Seal those drafts: Use weather‑stripping around doors and windows. A 10‑minute job can shave off up to 5 % of heating costs.
• Swap to LED bulbs: LED lights use about 80 % less electricity than classic bulbs and last much longer. EST’s bulk‑buy program can get you them cheap.
• Fit a smart thermostat: It learns your schedule and cuts heating when you’re out. Even a basic model can save £80‑£120 a year.
• Turn off standby power: Unplug chargers and devices when not in use, or plug them into a power strip and switch it off.

These steps take little time but add up fast, especially if you combine a few of them.

For larger projects like cavity wall insulation or double glazing, EST offers a searchable directory of accredited installers. Their “Green Deal” advice page walks you through financing options so you don’t need to pay the full cost up front.

Remember, each improvement not only shrinks your bill but also reduces your carbon footprint. In the UK, homes account for about 30 % of total energy use. Making even small changes helps the country meet net‑zero targets while keeping more money in your pocket.

Ready to get started? Head to the Energy Saving Trust website, enter your postcode, and you’ll get a personalised action plan. It’s free, it’s quick, and it’s backed by experts who have helped millions of households across Britain.