Which? And Snugg Planning Service Launched
Which? and Snugg Launch New Home Energy Planning Service to Help Households Save on Bills and Go Green
Amid rising energy prices and mounting cost-of-living pressures, Which? and tech startup Snugg have joined forces to introduce a groundbreaking home energy planning service designed to help households reduce their energy bills and improve the sustainability of their homes. This free online tool provides personalised guidance on energy-saving improvements and connects users to Which?-endorsed tradespeople via the Which? Trusted Trader network.
Which? Is a brand renowned for it's credibility and success at working on behalf of consumers
With the energy price cap increasing by 10%, adding an average of £149 per year to household bills, millions of people are seeking ways to cut costs. This service, launched today, offers a comprehensive solution by not only providing tailored energy-saving tips but also offering direct access to verified professionals who can carry out essential work, such as insulation, heating system upgrades, and solar energy installations.
Simple Steps to Save Money and Improve Energy Efficiency
Which? Energy Editor, Emily Seymour, highlights the urgency of the situation:
"Many households will understandably be worried about the energy price cap rise, especially as we head into colder months. There are simple steps you can take right now that won’t cost a penny and could help cancel out the cost of the increase. This service is a game-changer, offering a free, reliable, and personalised tool that empowers people to make informed decisions, reduce their energy bills, and contribute to a greener future.”
For example, the tool helps users discover easy ways to save money, such as switching to direct debit payments, opting for paperless billing, or making small home improvements like draught-proofing. Even lowering the temperature on your combi boiler can lead to significant savings on gas bills.
The service is accessible right now
For those considering larger home improvements, such as replacing an old boiler or installing better insulation, the service offers estimates of potential savings, details on available government grants, and connects users with trusted professionals through the Which? Trusted Trader service.
Trusted Tradespeople to Get the Job Done
Users of the tool can easily find Which?- endorsed professionals in their area who are skilled in delivering energy-efficient home upgrades. Whether it's adding insulation, installing solar panels, or upgrading heating systems, homeowners can confidently select from a pool of verified tradespeople.
This collaboration is expected to create new opportunities for professionals in the home energy sector. For Which? Trusted Traders, the service will provide a steady pipeline of customers seeking energy efficiency improvements, helping skilled tradespeople grow their business while playing a crucial role in the UK’s push towards achieving net zero by 2050.
Robin Peters, CEO of Snugg, adds:
“Getting the UK to Net Zero is a huge challenge. But as 20 per cent of carbon emissions come from our homes, we're faced with an equally huge opportunity. We’re excited to partner with Which? to enhance their home energy offering and address this opportunity. With just a few clicks, thousands of people will be able to identify and implement suitable home energy efficiency improvements that will have a lasting impact on their homes and the environment.”
Snugg is a pioneer in the tech and retrofit space
Personalised Plans for a Greener Future
The tool is simple to use. After entering their postcode, users receive a detailed, step-by-step plan that suggests energy-saving improvements specific to their property. This includes the costs involved, potential savings on bills, and available grants. It also connects them with trusted installers who can carry out the work to high standards.
The service caters not only to individual households but also benefits tradespeople who want to help educate their customers on energy-efficient options. For members of the Trusted Trader network, this tool provides an invaluable resource to guide customers through their home energy upgrade journey with the Which? brand behind them.
Bigger Savings and Long-Term Impact
For homeowners looking to invest in bigger energy-saving upgrades, the Which? home energy planning service provides information on government grants such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, which offers up to £7,500 for switching to low-carbon heating solutions. These upgrades not only contribute to lower energy bills but also play a vital role in reducing carbon emissions from residential properties, which account for 20% of the UK’s total emissions.
This tool makes the complex journey to greener living accessible, helping homeowners make informed decisions about their energy use. Whether it’s fitting insulation around hot water pipes for as little as £15 or considering significant upgrades like new boilers or heat pumps, the tool empowers users to plan for long-term savings and sustainability.
Getting Consumers Involved in Retrofit
The importance of this new tool and the powerful impact the Which? audience brings is not to be underestimated. As thousands of homeowners teeter on the balance of choosing schemes to improve their homes - a key barrier is receiving endorsement that their choices are for the right services and grants for their homes.
There will be no silver bullet to the challenges of retrofit but the whole process just received a shot in the arm from the team at Which? and Snugg. Great news and a great partnership.