Information on Loughborough

Families invited to save energy

Posted on 04/08/2009

Leicestershire Councty Council Community Services

4 August 2009

Families invited to save energy

Families are invited to take part in an energy saving challenge and learn how to cut their bills at the same time.

The Big Switch Off Partnership hopes to recruit two families from each district or borough in Leicestershire - as well as Rutland - to take part in the year-long contest which could lead them to save around 20 per cent in their energy bills.

Participants will be provided with a free energy monitor and guidance and tips on how to save energy – and money.

Two families from each area will be chosen to take part and whoever saves the most energy over a 12 month period will receive a family ticket to the Snibston Discovery Park and/or a green goodie hamper.

If every family in Leicestershire switched their electrical goods off standby the area could save an average of more than £9 million pounds per year – and enough carbon to fill 305,772 double decker buses.

Anyone who would like to take part is asked to visit: www.leics.gov.uk/bsocompetitions and submit their expression of interest before September 13.

This year’s Big Switch Off, which is a partnership of local authorities in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland, will run from 12th – 18th October.

The innovative week-long campaign encourages residents to switch off unnecessary electrical equipment and lighting to save energy, money and cut carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions.

Co-chairman of the subregional Regional Improvement and Efficiency Partnership, which is funding the Big Switch Off, David Parsons, said: "By taking part you will not only be helping save energy. but you will also be saving some money too."

"Hopefully the Big Switch Off won’t just encourage people to think about energy saving for a week, but for a lifetime."

There are various ways to get involved as a volunteer, family, community group, school, or business. To make a difference or find out more about the campaign, please visit www.leics.gov.uk/bigswitchoff.

To pledge your support to this year’s Big Switch off campaign visit:

www.leics.gov.uk/bsopledge

 ENDS