Energy efficiency starts with everyday decisions

With rising energy costs and greater awareness of the need for immediate climate action, more and more people are considering their energy efficiency. It can sometimes feel overwhelming, and it can be hard to figure out where you can begin to make a difference. But people can make a big difference in their everyday lives.

Every day, from the moment we get up, we are using energy. We are constantly making decisions about how and where we use energy and for how long. Did you know that approximately 25 per cent of the energy used in Ireland is used in our homes? That is even more than industry.

To keep your use of electricity as low as possible, you should know which appliances use the most electricity. Be smart about when and how often you use them. A good rule of thumb is: if it makes things hot, then it uses a lot of electricity. For example, electric showers, kettles, washing machines, tumble dryers and hairdryers. Also, when purchasing new appliances make sure you look at the energy labels and choose one that has the highest energy efficiency rating. When replacing your light bulbs make sure you purchase energy efficient LED bulbs.

Upgrading the energy efficiency of your home has many long-term benefits. Not only will you experience a warmer, cosier home but you will also reap the benefits of reduced energy bills. One of the first steps you should consider is to make your home more energy efficient by adding insulation.

On average, a home loses 20-30 per cent of its heat through the walls and up to 30 per cent through a poorly insulated attic. Insulation will reduce heat loss and your heating bills. Not everyone is able to carry out a large home energy upgrade in one go. However, it is possible to do individual energy upgrades over time to suit your own requirements and budget.

You might consider just installing attic insulation or cavity wall insulation. Both upgrades are relatively inexpensive and cause little disruption in the home. SEAI has recently increased the individual grants for these upgrades to cover up to 80 per cent of the cost.