New technology which would allow consumers to see real-time energy costs, allowing them to decide whether or not to use electricity is being developed by researchers.Scientists at the University of Manchester and technology firm RLtec are developing so-called smart energy grids.The research, funded by the European Commission, aim to make...

Electricity suppliers will not be obliged to provide their customers with real-time electricity monitors the department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform (BERR) has said.The BERR has moved away from obligatory provision of display devices, which could help people make choices about how they use their energy, to proposing a...

Switching to energy efficient appliances can help save money and the environment, it has been claimed.The Energy Saving Trust (EST) has pointed out that in using Energy Saving Recommended appliances and cosumer electricals, UK consumers could cut their energy bills and potentially increase their energy performance certificate rating.Caroline Rams, public...

Switching to a new boiler could have a big effect on a property's energy efficiency, according to an industry expert.The National Landlords Association (NLA) has claimed that there are a variety of ways in which people can reduce their energy consumption as a means of increasing their energy performance certificate...

Using energy efficient appliances can have environmental and financial benefits, one organisation has claimed.The Energy Saving Trust (EST) has highlighted the fact that over 40 per cent of the UK's carbon emissions are derived from the energy used in domestic properties.Adrian Arnold, head of trade marketing at the EST, has...

Eco-products will soon be designed based on renewable energy sources, it has been suggested.Devices such as solar powered iPods, mobile phones and cars - as well as the latter being fuelled by water - will soon be used by people hoping to reduce their carbon footprints.This is according to Nigel...

Homeowners have been advised to stave off the effects of rising fuel costs by improving the energy efficiency of their homes.The Guardian has pointed to Ofgem statistics which claim the average annual gas and electricity bill for a family living in a three-bedroom house could reach £1,044 this year, in...

Some 3,500 first year students at the University of East Anglia have contributed to cutting the institution's energy bills by £17,500.As part of the Student Switch Off campaign, those living in the halls of residence at the university have made increased efforts to cut their energy usage and have saved...

A new washing machine has been developed that uses less water and energy than conventional models.The Xeros utilises plastic chips - that can be reused for around 100 washes - to pound clothing, remove dirt and leave it almost dry, the Independent reports.It uses less than two per cent of...

A new energy-efficient kettle has a one-cup measurement feature so that users will only boil the amount of water they need, it has been suggested.The Energy Sense kettle, launched by Kenwood, is described by the manufacturer as ideal "for consumers who want to enjoy a cuppa with a clear conscience",...

Consumers considering investing in a new tumble dryer have been advised to opt for one powered by gas, rather than electricity, as they are more fuel-efficient, Consumer Reports has suggested.In addition, new dryers feature technology such as moisture sensors, which are programmed to shut off when the load is dry....