Britons 'paying more for energy than before'

Friday, July 2nd 2010

Homeowners who are trying to cut the size of their bills may be restricted by a nationwide surge in the amount of energy being used.

According to statistics published in Social Trends 40, released today (July 2nd) by the Office for National Statistics, UK households are now using 155 per cent more domestic energy than in the 1970s.

This is consumed in order to power lights and electrical appliances, such as televisions, microwaves and stereos.

Some 40 years ago, the country required about 2.7 million tonnes of oil for such purposes, a figure that has now risen to 6.8 million tonnes, the organisation states.

In this time, the rate charged by providers has typically grown, meaning some people could now struggle to find the cash for their energy bills.

The San Francisco Chronicle this week suggested adding insulation to walls, attics and garages in a bid to cut gas consumption and, as a result, enjoy smaller power bills.