State pensioners can save £500 a year on energy bills with 8 changes | Personal Finance | Finance

As people retire and spend more time at home, energy usage can increase dramatically, and being on a fixed income means the rising cost of living can eat heavily into a monthly budget. One expert is urging state pensioners to look at making small changes which can save them £500 a year or more off their energy bill.

Neil McKenzie from Halton Stairlifts said: “Energy efficiency becomes even more important in later life. With just a few simple changes, pensioners can make their homes more comfortable, sustainable, and importantly – more affordable to run.”

McKenzie said there were at least eight simple changes that can help the over 65s cut energy costs.

1. Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat and save up to £150 a year

A smart thermostat adjusts heating automatically based on your daily routine. Many are controllable via mobile apps, so you’re never wasting heat when it’s not needed. Some energy providers even offer free models or discounts for pensioners.

2. Improve insulation and save up to £300 a year

Insulating your loft, walls, and floors can stop as much as 25% of heat from escaping. Even adding draught excluders to windows and doors (which cost less than £10) can save around £20-£30 a year.

3. Switch to LED lighting and save around £35 a year

LED bulbs use up to 80% less energy and last longer than traditional ones. Replacing all the lights in a typical home can cut lighting bills by over £30 annually.

4. Choose energy-efficient appliances and save £100 a year

Old appliances are energy-hungry. Upgrading to A-rated models – especially your fridge-freezer, washing machine, and kettle – can lead to serious savings. Some charities and local councils offer grants to help with the cost.

5. Install thermal curtains or blinds and sve up to £60 a year

Thick curtains or specially insulated blinds keep heat in during winter and block excess sun in summer. They’re a low-cost way to reduce the need for heating and air conditioning.

6. Fit radiator reflector panels – save around £25 a year

These panels bounce heat back into the room rather than letting it escape through walls. They’re cheap, easy to fit, and particularly useful in older homes.

7. Turn down the thermostat just 1C and save around £100 a year

You probably won’t notice the difference, but your wallet will. Lowering the thermostat from 21°C to 20°C can make a significant dent in heating costs.

8. Consider solar panels – Save £300+/year long-term

While the upfront cost can be high (starting around £5,000), solar panels can reduce your electricity bill dramatically and even allow you to earn money through the Smart Export Guarantee by selling unused energy back to the grid.

Additional support for pensioners

Don’t forget – if you’re over 65, you may be eligible for schemes like: