Energy hacks and greener home features were some of the biggest conversation points of 2022, according to research from UK home builder Redrow. Although the most talked about topic in 2022 was the cost of living, being environmentally friendly and energy efficient at home was also popular – with people spending 63 minutes a week talking about their home hacks.
Together, they took up twice the amount of time compared to the weather, and over three times the amount of conversation on the football World Cup. 87% of Brits say they’ve discussed methods to reduce their household energy consumption and increase energy efficiency recently, and a quarter have discussed this topic for an hour or more on average in recent weeks.
Expect to hear even more about how your friends, colleagues and neighbours are going green in 2023, with the cost of living and energy efficiency the main theme of the nation’s New Year’s resolutions. Alongside the usual health and fitness goals, people across the country were also looking to reduce their energy consumption and food waste, recycle more and invest in energy efficient items for around the home.
Top New Year’s Resolutions for 2023
- Saving money & being mindful of spending (40%)
- Working on personal appearance or health (20%)
- Getting the home organised (14%)
- Reducing energy consumption (12%)
- Working on career (11%)
Three quarters (74%) of Brits say that living in an energy efficient home is more important than a year ago. Premium housebuilder Redrow has seen this trend replicated in its sales, with green, energy efficient features like solar panels and underfloor heating becoming increasingly requested by homebuyers.
However, nearly a third (29%) believe they are unable to make their home more energy efficient as their house is too old. This may be why, nearly half (49%) would consider moving to a new build home due to the energy efficient features already installed.
James Holmear, Director, at Redrow, said: “The great green conversation is ramping up across the country, with our research showing more people are talking about energy efficiency than ever before, especially in relation to their homes."