Stevenson Supports Energy Saving Week

Banff & Buchan MSP Stewart Stevenson has given his backing to Energy Saving Week, which takes place from 22nd – 28th October.

Commenting on the initiative, Mr Stevenson said:

“I urge all to get involved in this exciting event as it is the perfect way for everyone to make a commitment to save energy at home. By committing to save just 20% of the energy we use everyday, together we can help fight climate change. Of course, energy efficiency is the cleanest, safest and cheapest way of reducing carbon dioxide emissions

“The theme of this year's event is a 'Community a Day' with the seven days (from Monday to Sunday) being: Women’s Day - Cafe Direct, Work Day - Royal Mail and postal workers, Digital Day - The online community via Facebook, Families Day - P&G’s ‘Future Friendly’ campaign, Men’s Day - DSGI and gadget enthusiasts, Home Improvers’ Day - B&Q and DIY enthusiasts and Faith Day - faith communities.

“If each of us were to undertake at least one of ten small measures such as: turning lights off when leaving rooms and only boiling enough water that is required, then this will help to reduce the amount of energy that we consume on a daily basis.

“For those wishing for more information you can call the Energy Saving Trust Scotland on 0131 555 7900 or by visiting the website: www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/Scotland.”
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Notes: 10 measures are:

1. Turn your thermostat down. Reducing your room temperature by 1◦C could cut your heating bills by up to 10 percent. You could save around 40 pounds per year.

2. Is your water too hot? Your cylinder thermostat shouldn't need to be set higher than 60oC /140oF.

3. Close your curtains at dusk to stop heat escaping through the windows.

4. Always turn off the lights when you leave a room.

5.Don't leave appliances on standby and remember not to leave appliances on charge unnecessarily.

6.If you're not filling up the washing machine, tumble dryer or dishwasher, use the half-load or economy programme.

7.Only boil as much water as you need (but remember to cover the elements if you're using an electric kettle).

8.A dripping hot water tap wastes energy and in one week wastes enough hot water to fill half a bath, so fix leaking taps and make sure they're fully turned off!

9.Use energy saving light bulbs. Just one can save you 100 pounds over the lifetime of the bulb - and they last up to 12 times longer than ordinary lightbulbs.

10.Do a home energy check. Just answer some simple questions about your home and we'll give you a free, impartial report telling you how you can save up to 300 pounds a year on your household energy bills.