Energy regulator Ofgem has shared energy-saving and money-saving tips on social media as the cost of living continues to strain household budgets across the country. To avoid paying more than necessary, people are seeking energy-saving devices, advice, and strategies to keep costs as low as possible.

Ofgem is the independent national body that regulates energy markets in the UK. It helps protect consumers by controlling prices, including through the energy price cap, and by ensuring suppliers adhere to the rules.

In a fresh post on X today (March 19), Ofgem suggested households use a specific item to help cut energy bills. It stated that it has “three top tips for reducing your lighting bill”.

Ofgem explained: “Swap out your incandescent filament bulbs with modern LEDs, CFL or halogens. Turn off the lights when no one’s in the room. Motion sensors are a great way to ensure you are only using lights when you need them.”

One suggestion is to substitute your light bulbs with more energy-efficient alternatives. LED bulbs are the most economical choice, as they consume up to 80 per cent less electricity than a traditional bulb, reports the Mirror.

The long-term savings from decreased energy use and fewer replacements also make them the most cost-effective option. On its website, Ofgem also states: “Changing old bulbs to energy-efficient LED lights can save you up to £4 per bulb per year, according to the Energy Saving Trust.”

Switching exclusively to LED bulbs in your home can be a smart choice. Many energy suppliers agree, including Octopus Energy, which says: “You could save £72+. Lighting makes up around 11 per cent of a typical power bill. LEDs use 70-80 per cent less electricity, so when it’s time to replace those bulbs, go LED.

“The Energy Savings Trust has written loads about the impact it could make on your bills: between £5 – £13 per bulb, per year! Making sure you switch off the lights when you leave the room can save a further £20 per year.”

It’s worth checking which bulbs are presently fitted in your property and whether they need replacing. Ofgem has not mentioned a certain type of brand, but numerous homeware retailers stock LED bulbs, including B&Q, Toolstation, Screwfix, Argos, IKEA, The Range and Amazon.

For a budget-friendly option, Amazon customers can buy a 24-pack of ‘warm white’ LED 2700K Bulbs for £20.99. These won’t just last a considerable time but also, when calculated individually, work out at just 87p per bulb – making them the most cost-effective choice amongst all the other packs available.

The 24-pack of LED 2700K Bulbs boasts an ‘A’ energy-saving rating. The highest energy efficiency classification is A, indicating the most economical performance level for household appliances.

This classification typically ranges from A (most economical) to G (least economical). An ‘A’ classification demonstrates that a product or property uses the minimum energy necessary for effective operation. The Energy Savings Trust offers comprehensive information on LED bulbs on its website.

One statement reads: “LEDs are the most common type of light bulb available. They’re the most energy efficient, turn on instantly at full brightness, and are available to fit pretty much any light fitting in the home.

“LEDs are by far the most energy-efficient light bulbs. LED light bulbs are just as powerful as halogen lights but use 80 per cent less electricity to do so. Also, LEDs last significantly longer than halogen bulbs-up to 20x longer in many cases-so you may not need to replace them for many years.”