Britain is facing a surge in cold weather, with icy conditions and fog expected for much of this week
The UK Met Office has issued a Yellow warning, which means there could be damage to buildings as Britons brace for cold conditions.
Like much of Europe, the UK are bracing for very strong winds on Wednesday, causing disruption to travel and some utilities.
Drivers are also urged to take extra care on the roads, with warnings in place for icy stretches forming on UK roads.
But some residents who are seeking to heat their homes are on edge, as power prices remain high.
Peter Smith is the director of policy and advocacy at National Energy Action, who said the rising cost of living is impacting Britons.
“The average annual bill has almost doubled since this time last year.”
The organisation seeks to close the gaps when it comes to energy affordability. It predicts 6.7 million UK households will be in fuel poverty in the coming months.
This means millions of Britons will be unable to afford living in a warm, dry and safe home.
“So far the milder than usual weather has protected many from the spiralling bills as they haven’t needed to heat their homes as high or as long as usual,” Mr Smith said.
How to keep warm without blowing your bill
UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has urged people to make their own decisions, as he met with world leaders in tropical Bali last week.
“There are things that we can do—all of us—to improve the efficiency with which we use energy, to be careful about it,” he said.
For example, an efficient heater; taking advantage of the sun, where appropriate; and rearranging furniture are some cost-effective methods to reduce the burden on gas and energy bills.
Pipes at the Nord Stream 1 gas pipeline are pictured in Germany.
In addition, there are some other cheap ways to reduce dependence on gas and electricity bills, as the temperature continue to plunge.
close off rooms you’re not using
lower the temperature of heating
make sure windows are fully closed
block cold drafts from under doors using door snakes or carpet.
The UK Government has placed a cap freeze on energy prices.
This means households will pay an average £2,500 on their energy bills. But there is a catch: if households use more, they pay more.
National Energy Action believes an additional 2.2 million homes could be in fuel poverty, when compared to the same time last year.
Why are energy prices so high?
As demand increases, so too does the cost of heating homes.
But there is another factor, which has sent prices rising across Europe: the war in Ukraine.
However, countries are struggling to find alternative supplies after sanctioning Moscow for the ongoing conflict.
“Putin’s abhorrent war in Ukraine, and rising energy prices across the world are not a reason to go slow on climate change. They are a reason to act faster.”
RISHI SUNAK, UK PRIME MINISTER
Germany halted the Nord Stream 2 pipeline, which was expected to double the amount of Russian gas shipped to Europe.
In July, Russia cut the amount of gas pumped through Nord Stream 1 to 20 per cent capacity.
Costa is a news producer at ticker NEWS. He has previously worked as a regional journalist at the Southern Highlands Express newspaper. He also has several years' experience in the fire and emergency services sector, where he has worked with researchers, policymakers and local communities. He has also worked at the Seven Network during their Olympic Games coverage and in the ABC Melbourne newsroom.
He also holds a Bachelor of Arts (Professional), with expertise in journalism, politics and international relations. His other interests include colonial legacies in the Pacific, counter-terrorism, aviation and travel.
Formula 1 has seen its fair share of millionaire racers, but who tops the wealth charts in the high-octane world of motorsports? We’ve delved into the vaults to unveil the crème de la crème of F1’s richest drivers.
Topping the list is the legendary Michael Schumacher, whose illustrious career brought him a fortune estimated at a staggering £600 million. Schumacher’s success on the track translated into lucrative endorsements and investments, securing his place at the pinnacle of F1 wealth.
In second place is Lewis Hamilton, the modern-day superstar who’s amassed a fortune of £285 million through his unparalleled driving skills and lucrative sponsorship deals. Hamilton’s seven World Championships have catapulted him into the ranks of the sport’s financial elite.
Third on the list is the iconic Ayrton Senna, whose untimely death in 1994 couldn’t overshadow his financial legacy of approximately £250 million. Senna’s charisma and talent continue to resonate with fans and sponsors alike.
Other notable entries include Sebastian Vettel, Fernando Alonso, and Nico Rosberg, all boasting impressive fortunes derived from their F1 exploits.
These colossal earnings demonstrate the immense allure and financial potential of Formula 1. As the sport continues to evolve, the battle for the top spot in the wealth rankings remains as fierce as the races themselves.
In today’s fast-paced world inundated with endless choices, mastering decision-making has become an essential skill.
The digital age has provided us with an unprecedented array of options, from the products we purchase to the paths we choose in our careers and personal lives. With this abundance of choices, individuals often find themselves overwhelmed and paralyzed by indecision.
To navigate this intricate landscape, one must adopt a strategic approach to decision-making. The first step is to clarify your objectives. Clearly define what you want to achieve or the problem you aim to solve.
This sets the foundation for a focused decision-making process.
Gather information
Next, gather information and consider your options. In the digital age, information is readily available, but it’s crucial to distinguish between credible sources and misinformation. Seek advice from trusted experts or mentors when necessary.
Furthermore, embrace the power of prioritization. Not all choices are created equal, and some may have more significant impacts than others. Identify your priorities and allocate your time and resources accordingly.
Additionally, practice mindfulness and self-awareness. Understanding your values, beliefs, and biases can help you make decisions aligned with your true self. This introspective approach can lead to more fulfilling choices.
Lastly, don’t fear making mistakes. In a world full of options, no decision is entirely risk-free. Embrace the learning opportunities that come with making choices, whether they lead to success or setbacks.
By mastering decision-making in this age of abundance, you can lead a more purposeful and satisfying life. Remember, your choices shape your destiny, and with the right strategies, you can navigate the sea of options with confidence.