£200 in Savings: With energy prices rising again in April 2025—pushing the UK energy price cap to £1,849 per year—millions of households are actively seeking ways to cut costs without sacrificing comfort. If you’re a British Gas, Octopus Energy, or OVO Energy customer, you’re in luck: there are powerful yet easy-to-implement strategies that could help you save over £200 annually on your energy bills. These practical tips range from adjusting boiler settings to taking advantage of time-of-use tariffs. Many are backed by major providers, government bodies, and real consumer data. Whether you’re a homeowner, renter, or energy-conscious professional, this comprehensive guide breaks it all down.
£200 in Savings
By making simple, informed changes—most of which cost nothing—you can save over £200 a year on your energy bills. British Gas, Octopus, and OVO customers benefit from programs that encourage smarter, greener usage. From tweaking your boiler settings to tapping into government grants, these steps don’t just cut costs—they make your home more comfortable and sustainable. Start today, and your wallet (and the planet) will thank you.
| Tip or Program | Estimated Annual Savings |
|---|---|
| Lower thermostat by 1°C | £75 |
| Adjust boiler flow temperature | £65 |
| Turn off standby devices | £80 |
| Time-of-use rewards (OVO Power Move, BG PeakSave) | £180 |
| Cooking with efficiency | £100 |
| Loft insulation and draught-proofing | £200 |
| Government ECO4 scheme | Varies (free upgrades) |
Why £200 in Savings Matters in 2025?
The UK is grappling with high inflation, energy market volatility, and an increased cost of living. Ofgem’s energy price cap, meant to protect households from overpaying, rose by 6.4% in April 2025. This brings the average bill for a typical user to £1,849 annually. However, the good news is that by understanding your tariff, adjusting everyday habits, and making small upgrades, you can significantly reduce your energy usage and bills—with many of these tips requiring zero investment upfront.
1. Adjust Your Thermostat and Boiler Settings
Lowering your thermostat by just 1°C can save around £75 per year, according to British Gas. The Energy Saving Trust also recommends setting your room temperature between 18°C and 21°C, depending on your age and health.
Your boiler also plays a major role. Octopus Energy recommends turning down the flow temperature to 55°C, which can reduce gas consumption by 6–8% without compromising comfort.
Quick Actions:
- Set your boiler’s flow temp to 55–60°C.
- Lower thermostat to 19°C.
- Use thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) to control room heat individually.
2. Turn Off ‘Vampire Devices’
So-called “vampire devices” use electricity even when turned off or in standby mode. These include:
- TVs and games consoles
- Broadband routers
- Kitchen appliances like microwaves and coffee machines
- Chargers and computers
Octopus Energy estimates turning off these devices at the plug can save up to £80 per year. Consider smart plugs or timer switches for convenience.
3. Take Advantage of Time-of-Use Tariffs
OVO Energy’s “Power Move” and British Gas’s “PeakSave” programs reward you for shifting usage away from 4–7 PM, the peak demand period.
How it works:
- Use your washing machine, dishwasher, or electric vehicle charger during off-peak hours.
- Earn credits or cashback monthly (up to £15/month with OVO Power Move).
- British Gas customers in PeakSave can access exclusive discounts or participate in National Grid events.
These initiatives could cut up to £180 per year if you consistently adapt your usage.
4. Cook Smart and Save Big
According to Which?, using a microwave instead of an oven for small meals can save up to £100 a year. Here are other efficient cooking tips:
- Always use lids on pots to reduce cooking time.
- Batch cook and reheat using a microwave.
- Use slow cookers or air fryers—they’re low-energy champions.
If you’re using electric ovens, keep the door closed as much as possible to retain heat.
5. Improve Insulation and Draught-Proofing
Draughts can make your home feel colder, prompting you to overuse heating. You can insulate your home for less than £200 and save double that in the first year. Focus on:
- Loft insulation (270mm thickness recommended)
- Pipe lagging
- Hot water cylinder jackets
- Draught-proofing doors and windows
The Energy Saving Trust estimates up to £200/year in savings from a well-insulated home.
6. Claim Support from the ECO4 Scheme
Many households qualify for free or subsidised insulation, heating upgrades, or smart meters through the government’s Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) scheme.
This is especially valuable for:
- Low-income households
- Properties with low EPC ratings (D or below)
- Homes with inefficient heating systems
7. Monitor Usage with Smart Meters and Apps
Smart meters offer real-time visibility of your electricity and gas usage. Most providers—including OVO, Octopus, and British Gas—offer apps that help you:
- Monitor daily/weekly usage
- Identify peak consumption habits
- Set budgets and energy-saving targets
Many users report a 5–10% drop in usage within weeks of monitoring usage with a smart meter.
Case Study: How One Family Saved £250 in 6 Months
The Jones family in Leeds, customers of Octopus Energy, implemented several strategies:
- Lowered their thermostat from 21°C to 19°C
- Installed radiator reflectors and draught-proofing tape
- Cooked exclusively with a slow cooker
- Turned off unused appliances at the wall
They reported a £250 drop in energy costs over six months compared to the previous year—without any impact on comfort.
UK Housing Benefit In April 2025 – Check Benefit Amounts, Eligibility Criteria
UK Government Updates Two-Child Benefit Cap – Key Details, Eligibility & Payment Info!
UK Announces Temporary ETA Exemption – Can You Travel Without One? Full Details Inside
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the best energy-saving tip with no cost?
Lowering your thermostat and turning off standby appliances are free and can save over £150 a year combined.
Q2: Do smart meters actually save money?
Yes. While smart meters don’t reduce consumption themselves, they empower you to monitor and reduce wasteful habits.
Q3: How do I join OVO Power Move or PeakSave?
Visit ovoenergy.com or britishgas.co.uk and log in to your account. Look under ‘rewards’ or ‘energy saving programs.’
Q4: Is loft insulation a DIY job?
Yes, if your loft is accessible and dry, you can install rolls of insulation yourself. Otherwise, you can apply for grants.
Q5: Are energy-efficient cooking appliances worth it?
Yes. Air fryers and microwaves use up to 70% less energy than electric ovens for small meals.
