Half of the over-50s would consider downsizing to cut their winter energy bills, according to new research…

The latest research from over-50s property specialists, Regency Living, has revealed that more than half of over-50s have considered downsizing their home in order to help reduce their energy bills, with 67 per cent stating that they have so far refrained from turning on their heating despite the arrival of cold weather.

The latest figures from Ofgem show that while the average direct debit energy price cap has fallen by 6.4 per cent for October to December 2024 versus the same period last year, it still sits at a hefty £1,717.

What’s more, it’s already increased by 9.5 per cent versus the previous quarter (Q3 2024 vs Q4 2024), with a further increase of 1.2 per cent expected in Q1 of 2025.

Struggling to cope
So, it’s hardly surprising that a survey of over-50s homeowners, commissioned by Regency Living, has found that many are struggling to cope with the high cost of heating their home.

A whopping 71 per cent of those surveyed by Regency Living stated that they struggle with the cost of their energy bills. What’s more, as many as 67 per cent said they had so far refrained from turning on their heating in order to keep costs down.

Those looking to cut down on their energy bills could consider a move to Plymouth (pictured below). Analysis of Government data on energy consumption, conducted by Regency Living, found that the average home in Plymouth consumes a total of 10,795 kWh – the lowest level of energy consumption in the nation.

Of course, if you don’t fancy a move to Plymouth you could look to downsize your home. Figures from Rightmove have found that downsizing from a five-bed detached home to a more energy efficient three-bedroom detached home could save you £2,646 a year.

No surprise then that 52 per cent of those surveyed by Regency Living have considered downsizing in order to reduce the cost of their energy bills.

Range of benefits
Sales and marketing director at Regency Living, Tim Simmons, commented: “Downsizing can bring a range of benefits to home owners in their later years and the cost savings associated with such a move certainly rank amongst the most attractive reasons to do so.

“Not only can you release a great deal of the equity that has built up in your home by opting for a smaller, more affordable property, but the upkeep costs are also more manageable, not to mention it costs less to heat.

“This means that homeowners can not only enjoy later life, but they don’t have to worry about stocking up on blankets and warm clothes to avoid putting on the heating when a cold snap does hit.

“It is interesting to see that Plymouth ranks as the most affordable area when it comes to household energy consumption. It might seem a stretch to move there for that reason alone, however, we actually see a great deal of over-50s downsizers heading to the area as we have two fantastic residential park homes sites located in Newton Abbot and Saltash – both of which lie within a stone’s throw of Plymouth.”