Energy saving advice to ease impact of rising bills

Energy bills have increased by 10% across parts of the UK

A "one-stop shop" for energy saving advice has been launched in Surrey to give residents the chance to cut bills and "future proof" their homes.

The support is available for homes to be upgraded with energy-saving measures, including insulation, heat pumps and solar panels.

The pilot scheme comes as gas and electricity prices have risen by 10% in England, Scotland and Wales.

It means the typical annual dual-fuel bill paid by direct debit will increase by £149 from £1,568 to £1,717, according to energy regulator Ofgem.

Surrey County Council said the service is for households wanting to invest in their home's energy performance, but need help to get the project off the ground.

Eligible residents can access 60% of the planning, design and management costs.

• What is the energy price cap and how much are gas and electricity bills going up?

Marisa Heath, the council's cabinet member for environment, said the scheme would enable residents to reduce their long-term energy bills and "future proof" their homes.

She said it could also help the county hit its net-zero targets, with residential energy use accounting for 30% of Surrey's emissions.

All residents can receive support from home energy specialists Furbnow, which is working in partnership with the local authority to deliver the scheme.

The first 245 homes can access a subsidised whole house assessment and Home Energy Plan if they live in one of the 300,000 Surrey homes that have poor energy performance.

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