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Don't have a fuel payment holiday this summer
Strabane District Council is urging its citizens to continue to put money away this summer to buy larger, more economic amounts of fuel in the winter. The Chairperson of Strabane District Council, Councillor Thomas Kerrigan explained: “Many of us will be enjoying the reduced costs of heating our homes due to this warmer weather. However, I would urge citizens to continue allocating money each week, or month, for fuel. We may have a harsh winter this year and the rising cost of oil is concerning. Thinking ahead now and spreading the costs will prevent bills over Christmas when we have other financial pressures.”
Recognising the over reliance the district has on fossil fuels, the Chairperson added: “All energy costs are rising so taking measures such as insulating your home, fitting heating controls or alternative energies such as solar water heating systems can help you save money. The Energy Saving Advice Service has a range of grants for owner/occupiers and private sector tenants. I would urge everyone to telephone 0300 123 1234 or log on to www.energysavingtrust.org.uknorthernireland to see what they are entitled to.”
Paddy Cosgrove, Chief Environmental Health Officer added: “Buying oil in 20litredrums can cost up to a £1 per litremore than buying a larger delivery so we recommend that you save money now to buy in larger amounts later. This will allow you to get maximum value for money. Many firms now offer Pay-Point accounts and other budgeting methods to enable you to buy oil when prices are more competitive.”
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Notes to Editors
1. Fuel poverty is defined as where someone spends more than 10% of their household income on heating their homes. The government has a long-standing vow to end fuel poverty by 2016. But the problem has become more acute in recent years, largely because of big increases in domestic fuel bills and the onset of the economic recession
2. All oil burners should be serviced annually to maintain the efficiency of burners, prevent dangerous gases such as carbon monoxide. Regular servicing will reduce costs.
3. Tipping oil tanks can lead to sludge in the tank, blocking filters and damaging burners as well as causing leaks that can contaminate property and cause damage to health.
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