Cut back energy use 'to reduce outgoings'

Those who are trying to improve a credit rating by reducing their monthly outgoings could consider cutting down on their energy consumption.

Chief executive of National Energy Action Jenny Saunders said there is a wide range of ways households can go about this.

One method recommended by the expert was to rethink usage and take other energy efficiency measures in order to reduce the cost of their utility bills.

This could be particularly relevant advice at this time of year, as analysis recently published by price comparison website MoneySupermarket.com found an average of 40 per cent of overall annual gas and electricity consumption is used in the colder winter months.

"There are six million households across the UK who are in fuel poverty. That's defined as needing to spend more than ten per cent of income on energy needs in the home," commented Ms Saunders, who noted pensioners and families with young children on means tested benefits are the most at risk.