One thousand households in Basingstoke and Deane could now be saving hundreds of pounds on their energy bills every year, thanks to a local team of money-saving energy experts.

On Tuesday (18 November), Basingstoke resident Bernard became the 1,000^th person to be given free energy-saving advice by Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council’s specialists, who first started visiting homes two years ago to give people help to use less energy.

Their energy surveys take around an hour to complete and involve using thermal imaging to find cold spots in people’s homes. Every household in the borough can book one for free. It does not matter if a property is rented or owned.

Afterwards, residents get a report with tailored recommendations for how they can heat and power their homes while using less energy. It covers simple behavioural changes through to more in-depth advice on measures like insulation and low-carbon heating systems. It also signposts to grants that could help to pay for the improvements.

Bernard said: “Having someone come round who was approachable and didn’t push anything was a relief. I’ve already found out my radiators need a power flush so they heat up better and I’m really looking forward to getting the rest of the team’s tips soon.”

Another resident who has had a survey also said it was an “eye opener” to find out their radiators weren’t heating up as well as they could be. Others have said the advice they received was “very useful” and that they appreciated the fact that “no one is trying to sell you anything”.

The Cabinet member responsible for the energy-saving help Cllr Chris Tomblin said: “Giving free energy-saving advice to more than a thousand households is a significant achievement. It shows how committed this council is to helping residents, particularly those who may be struggling, to manage higher costs.

“I know many families are feeling the strain and so, if you haven’t yet booked a visit with our energy-saving experts, I encourage you to do so. The advice is free and it could make a real difference to your household budget.”

Free home visits with the council’s money-saving energy experts can be booked at www.basingstoke.gov.uk/home-energy-survey