If you haven't given much thought to how much your energy was costing you in previous years, 2022 has provided a huge wake up call. It's quite likely that the shock of this year's huge price rises will have made you think long and hard about your home energy use.

However, support is available for Highlands and Islands householders through Home Energy Scotland, funded by the Scottish Government and delivered by Energy Saving Trust. Home Energy Scotland's team of trained advisors and specialists are working extremely hard to meet the increased demand for our clear, impartial advice to help reduce the impact of these cost increases and help create warmer homes across the region.

Most people who contact Home Energy Scotland are keen to make sure they're not overpaying on their energy bills. We've got lots of information on ways to save.

Our trained advisors can check your eligibility for special discounts from energy suppliers. We can also help you get a benefits and tax credit check so you're not missing out on additional income.

In some cases, we can also help you access funding to improve your home's energy efficiency so you can stay warm without breaking the bank.

Call 0808 808 2282 or visit homeenergyscotland.org to find out how we can help.

In the meantime, here are four ways to help you reduce your energy bills:

1. Energy Saving Trust's quick tips show how much money you can save by implementing simple measures such as draught-proofing and insulating your hot water cylinder or adopting new behaviours like switching off standby mode and not overfilling the kettle. All the savings add up to hundreds of pounds yearly.
2. Make sure your energy supplier billing is accurate. During the ongoing energy price crisis, you might be better off staying with your current supplier as you might not save any money by switching to another provider. In the meantime, ensure you supply regular meter readings to avoid estimated bills. Take a look at our website article that details the importance of taking charge of your meter.
3. Give your home a makeover. Whether you're moving home or staying put, upgrading your heating and improving insulation can all help lower your energy bills. Contact us free on 0808 808 2282 to get advice on home improvements plus available financial assistance.
4. Offset your bills with green energy. Installing a renewable heating system like a heat pump could mean you pay less for heating your home depending on what type of system you have right now. Heat pumps can also reduce your home's carbon emissions while providing central heating and hot water.

Research commissioned by Energy Saving Trust and Home Energy Scotland in 2021 showed more than half of those asked (51%) hadn't heard of heat pumps. Some 40% of people thought heat pumps were too expensive to install, although one in five (20%) say they are likely to install a heat pump within the next five years.

If you are thinking about renewables, our team of specialist advisors can visit your home to discuss your property and recommend the very best options for generating your own energy.

They will create a written report just for you with all the relevant information you need. Plus, the good news is, it's all completely free and impartial.

Whatever happens with energy costs in the months ahead, Home Energy Scotland is here to help you.

Visit us online or call our Highlands and Islands advice centre on 0808 808 2282. We look forward to helping you save energy and money, have a warmer home and lower your carbon footprint too.