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Computers, televisions and other electrical products plugged in but not in use or left on standby cost the UK up to £1.3 billion in electricity bills every year, a study has revealed.
The study, conducted by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), Department of Energy and Climate Change (Decc) and the Energy Saving Trust also showed that the UK is watching 10 billion hours more TV than previously thought, adding £205m to electricity bills.
The study ‘Powering the nation’ is claimed to be first of its kind in the UK to measure and monitor electricity in real time and in real life situations and disaggregate power use and how electrical items are deployed.
Environment minister Lord Taylor of Holbeach said: “This survey shows we are using a lot more energy than previously thought.”
Energy and climate change insister Greg Barker said: “Using energy more wisely in our homes will not only cut carbon but will also help save money on bills. But first we need to really understand how we use this energy in order to become more energy wise.
“This report provides vital insights into what is happening on the ground, highlighting the need for more energy efficient household electrical appliances and indicating which appliances contribute most to electricity demand at peak times. This research will help us to understand and manage household energy demand.”
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