Big Energy Saving Week is a national campaign that helps people cut their energy bills while also reducing their carbon footprint. It brings together trusted advice, practical tips, and free support to empower households to make informed energy choices. Whether you’re switching suppliers, improving insulation, or simply understanding your bills better, this week is about taking control of your energy use without sacrificing comfort.
What is Big Energy Saving Week?
Big Energy Saving Week is a UK-wide initiative that focuses on helping people save energy and money at home. Run in partnership by Citizens Advice, the Energy Saving Trust, and the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, the campaign supports individuals – especially those on lower incomes or struggling with energy costs – to access advice and take action.
The week shines a spotlight on energy efficiency, switching suppliers, and understanding support schemes like the Warm Home Discount or energy grants. It also raises awareness of fuel poverty and offers solutions to help people stay warm without breaking the bank.
When is Big Energy Saving Week?
Big Energy Saving Week typically takes place in the third week of January. In 2026, it is expected to run from January 17th to January 23rd. The timing is deliberate – during the coldest part of the year when energy bills are often at their highest and households are under the most pressure.
During the week, Citizens Advice and local partners run events, drop-in sessions, webinars, and media campaigns to share energy-saving advice and connect people with free, impartial support.
Why Big Energy Saving Week Matters
Energy costs can be a serious burden, especially for low-income households, the elderly, or those living in poorly insulated homes. In 2023, over 6 million UK households were estimated to be in fuel poverty. Big Energy Saving Week isn’t just about shaving pounds off your bill – it’s about protecting people’s health and well-being.
It also matters for the planet. Household energy use accounts for around 15% of the UK’s greenhouse gas emissions. Making homes more energy-efficient and shifting to renewable power sources plays a vital role in tackling climate change. Big Energy Saving Week helps people see that small changes – like switching to LED bulbs or turning down the thermostat slightly – can add up to a real impact.
How to Get Involved in Big Energy Saving Week
There are plenty of practical ways to participate, whether you’re a renter, homeowner, or someone supporting others in your community:
- Check Your Tariff: Use Citizens Advice’s price comparison tool to see if you could save by switching energy providers or changing plans.
- Book a Free Energy Check: Many local Citizens Advice branches offer personalised advice sessions to review your bills and suggest ways to save.
- Apply for Help: See if you’re eligible for schemes like the Warm Home Discount, Winter Fuel Payment, or ECO funding for insulation and boilers.
- Make Simple Changes: Fit draft excluders, switch to efficient lightbulbs, reduce tumble dryer use, and only boil the water you need in the kettle.
- Share What You Learn: Post tips online or talk to friends and family about ways to save energy and money.
- Host or Attend an Event: Join a webinar or visit a local advice stall during the week to access support and learn more.
History of Big Energy Saving Week
Launched in 2012, Big Energy Saving Week was created by Citizens Advice in response to growing concerns about rising energy costs and a lack of awareness around switching suppliers. It started as a grassroots effort with local events and has since expanded into a high-impact national campaign supported by government departments and energy sector partners.
Over the years, the campaign has helped hundreds of thousands of people find better energy deals, access financial support, and reduce unnecessary energy waste. Its focus has also evolved to include climate awareness, energy justice, and reaching underserved communities.
Noteworthy Facts About Big Energy Saving Week
- Households can typically save around £200 per year by switching to a cheaper energy tariff or supplier.
- Turning your thermostat down by just 1°C can reduce your heating bill by around 10%.
- Draft-proofing windows and doors could save up to £45 a year on energy bills.
- Over 5 million households received the Warm Home Discount in 2023.
- The campaign has reached millions via social media, local events, and advice services since it began.
Hashtags
#BigEnergySavingWeek, #EnergySaving2026, #CutYourCarbon
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