As I write this, the Euros final has just concluded, and the Paris Olympic Games are about to begin. During the Euros final, there was an interesting spike in electricity demand across the country at halftime—a spike so large it equated to the output of a large power station (1300 MW). Remarkably, this spike was primarily due to people making a cup of tea! It’s fascinating how collective small actions can necessitate a full power station’s worth of energy.
In the past, this demand would have been met by gas-powered stations. However, this year for the first time, it was fulfilled entirely by hydropower dams (700 MW) and batteries (400 MW).
With the Paris Olympics likely just finishing when this issue of Hub Magazine is released, Paralympics ongoing and rugby Autumn Internationals yet to come, here are some energy-saving tips related to sports that can help you save on your energy bills:
1. Smart Kitchen Practices:
· Boil Only What You Need:
When watching any sport, only fill the kettle with the exact amount of water you need. This simple step can lead to significant energy savings.
· Use Air-Fryers Wisely
Air-fryers can be more energy-efficient than ovens. However, if you’re cooking a large amount, filling an oven may be more efficient.
2. Energy-Efficient Washing:
Opt for Showers:
If you’ve been active in sports, showering instead of taking a bath uses half the amount of energy and water. Adding an aerating shower head can also halve the energy used again.
· Wash Smart:
Always wait for a full load before running your washing machine. Set it to run at 30 degrees; this temperature uses less energy for heating the water.
· Dry Efficiently:
Tumble dryers consume a lot of energy. Whenever possible, dry your clothes outside. If that’s not an option, use drying racks in a well-ventilated room. A dehumidifier can dry clothes indoors more cheaply than a tumble dryer and helps reduce condensation and dampness.
3. Additional Resources:
· The Heat Project:
For more energy-saving tips, contact The Heat Project via email, phone, or Facebook.
martin@theheatproject.org, 07834 962 361.
· Energy and water saving packs:
Eligible households in Scotland can benefit from free water-saving packs through Home Energy Scotland. These packs may include aerating shower heads, tap aerators, and garden hose heads. Call 0808 808 2282 to speak with their advisors to find out more.
Small tweaks to our daily habits can make a big difference. By following these energy-saving tips, you’ll not only cut down on your bills but also help the planet. So, as you kick back and
enjoy the sports action, remember to be an energy-saving superstar. Let’s cheer on our teams and save energy like pros—because every little bit counts!
Story By energy advisor-Nathan Jamieson