Energy & Buildings

To tackle climate change, we need to reduce the amount of energy we use and move from an energy system based on fossil fuels to one which sources clean energy.

It is essential to limit the use of fossil fuels – oil, coal and natural gas – which are used to produce much of the world’s energy, in order to reduce carbon emissions that are warming the atmosphere, and replace them with clean, renewable energy. The transition away from fossil fuels includes everyday decisions, such as: driving and flying less; choosing seasonal and local food; using ‘green’ energy suppliers.

System-wide changes are needed too, such as ending subsidies in the form of tax breaks for fossil fuels and optimising infrastructure and policies to support community renewable energy and electric vehicles.

Switch to a renewable energy supplier

One of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce your environmental impact at home is to switch to a supplier of 100% clean electricity. Energy produced from renewable sources produces little or no global warming emissions, improves public health by reducing pollution and will not run out!

The process of switching is simple and can often save you money. It is important to choose a supplier of 100% renewable electricity – some companies offer renewable tariffs but still supply a fuel mix including fossil fuels for non-renewables tariffs. Companies to look at include: Octopus; Ecotricity; and Good Energy.

Save energy at home

In early 2023 we hosted a Home Energy Saving Talk by Andy Baldock from Energy Action Redhill & Reigate – see here for tips and ideas from EARR or to get a representative to come to do a heat loss survey on your home.

Work out how to save money at home by doing a Home Energy Check. You can also take a look at the Action Surrey website for information on insulating your home.

Fit LED lightbulbs

25% of the world’s energy consumption is used for lighting.  Switching to LEDs will reduce your energy consumption as they use 90% less energy than traditional bulbs.   LED bulbs do cost more to buy but they last much longer.  Work out which lights are on the most and replace those ones first.