Home energy efficiency is a key theme of the Keep Leicester Cool campaign, launched by the council and green charity Environ in a bid to reduce our city's contribution to climate change. Domestic energy use accounts for about a quarter of all the UK's emissions of carbon dioxide - the most significant of the greenhouse gases which cause global warming.
A fantastic first step towards making your home more energy efficient would be to join Leicester City Council's Energy Sense scheme which was launched five years ago. Ten thousand residents have joined this free scheme, but many more are being urged to sign up to make sure their homes stay warm and healthy when temperatures plummet.
The city council is concerned vulnerable people with cold and damp homes may be missing out on free services available through the Energy Sense scheme.
Darsh Chauhan, Home Energy Officer for the council, said: "Installing energy-saving measures is a simple way to help the environment and yourself. You could significantly reduce the amount of carbon dioxide produced in your home and save up to £250 a year on energy bills at the same time."
Members receive a discount card - offering reductions on energy-saving goods and services from approved suppliers - as well as an energy efficiency information pack. They can also request a free Home Energy Survey by an expert who visits Leicester homes to work out the best ways to save energy and identify any grants available.
To join Energy Sense call 0116 221 1170 or visit www.energy-sense.co.uk.
WHAT CAN I DO TO MAKE MY HOME MORE ENERGY EFFICIENT?
These three winter warmers are being promoted, as part of the Keep Leicester Cool campaign, for anyone who wants to make their homes more energy efficient:
1/ Loft insulation - Installing at least 200mm of loft insulation can cut heating bills by 20 per cent and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by more than a tonne a year.
2/ Draught proofing - DIY draught proofing costs just £50, but can save up to £25 annually on energy bills.
3/ Heating controls - Programmers, room thermostats and thermostatic radiator valves can make central heating systems more efficient, cutting costs by up to 20 per cent.