New builds are the way forward
Although they obviously have plenty of heritage and character, older properties tend to be harder on the environment. Central heating systems which were installed many years before are generally less efficient, and will be more of a drain on the world’s resources. When it comes to new builds, greener energy is close at hand.
Many houses these days incorporate some form of renewable power. Solar panels, for example, convert the rays of the sun into electricity, and domestic turbines do the same with the wind. Some people manage to generate so much, they can sell their surplus back to the National Grid.
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Venezuelan power cuts – hitting the economy
Venezuela has experienced rolling blackouts as water shortages have affected the main hydroelectric dam.
While Caracas has not been too badly affected, areas of the Andes have not been so lucky.
The economy of Venezuela is based around agriculture and tourism. Losing electricity could cost the country billions, as these too industries will be particularly badly hit. Especially as most of the agriculture takes place around the Andes and surrounding states.
These areas are also major tourist attractions, thanks to the stunning views.
As one Venezuelan resident said: “Why would you go to a place where there’s no electricity if you can take your holidays somewhere else? All in all, the regional economy has been badly damaged.”
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Reducing your electricity bills
As our lives have become dominated by gadgets and gizmos, all requiring ever-more electricity, our consumption has increased dramatically.
When you consider that 20 years ago, digital cameras, microwave ovens, portable music players, large widescreen TVs and games consoles either didn’t exist, or had a limited market. And it’s not just new products coming out that cause the problems. Compare the power consumption of the PS3 with that of the original PlayStation and you’ll see just how big the difference is. The same goes for televisions.
Electrical items are one of the biggest causes of high electricity bills, but there are a few things you can do to reduce your outgoings. One obvious tip is to turn off the lights when you’re not in a room as the energy saved soon mounts up. When looking to purchase a replacement fridge freezer or television, choose energy efficient items, often marked with an Energy Star sticker.
You should also look round your home and unplug anything with a standby light. Electricity is a huge part of our modern lives, but small steps can make a big difference in the long term.
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The pros and cons of electricity prepayment meters
A prepayment meter, where you top-up the amount of electricity you can use in your meter, much like a pay as you go mobile phone, offers advantages to those unable to budget for a monthly or quarterly bill.
For example, you can easily keep track of exactly how much electricity is being used, which could help you to use less. You’ll also never have an unexpected or large bill coming in, as you’re paying for the energy in advance.
The downside is that suppliers’ best deals are often not available for meter customers, and the average cost per unit is normally higher. There is also the risk that you’ll be cut off if you are unable to get to the shop and top up in time. Luckily, most energy companies provide emergency credit for just such a circumstance.
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