Where do I start with smart energy options?
Everyone's path to smarter energy use is unique. Here are some steps you might consider.
Improve your home’s energy efficiency and change energy behaviours
Start by making your home as energy efficient as possible. This can include:
- Simple behaviour changes
- Low-cost improvements
- Larger energy saving home upgrades (grants may be available)
Read CSE's advice on grants and funding.
1. Understand and monitor your home energy use
Understand how much energy you’re using and what appliances use the most energy.
- Review your bills.
- Identify energy-hungry appliances.
- Consider using energy monitoring tools to understand even more.
Read CSE's advice on energy monitors.
2. Smart meters: your energy insight tool
Smart meters give you:
- Real-time energy use information
- Accurate bills
- Access to time of use tariffs and flexibility services
Read CSE's advice on smart meters.
3. Understand energy tariffs: find the right tariff for you
Always make sure you're on the best tariff option.
- Compare options regularly.
- You will need to be on a suitable time of use tariff to get the most benefit from some renewables and EVs.
Read our advice on tariffs.
4. Flexibility services: energy use that pays off
Flexibility means adjusting when you use electricity to:
- Save money
- Support the energy system
- Potentially earn rewards
An example of flexibility is shifting your electricity use out of peak time (4-8pm) to make savings on your fuel bill. Time of use tariffs and flexibility are not the same thing.
Read our advice on flexibility services.
5. Renewables, battery storage and electric vehicles
Go greener and increase energy resilience for your home by generating and storing heat and electricity from renewable sources. Export and import electricity to and from the grid.
Read our advice on renewables.
Advanced options: Bundles and Home Energy Management Systems
As you progress, you might explore:
- Energy bundles: Combinations of smart products, services, and tariffs that work together (e.g., EV charger + EV tariff)
- Home Energy Management Systems (HEMS): Digital systems that connect and optimise multiple smart devices in your home