With average UK energy bills projected to increase by £276 annually starting in January, the arrival of colder weather and high gas prices is set to usher in a particular type of individual: the energy-saving bore (ESB).
These individuals are characterized by their extreme reluctance to use heating, often claiming they "don't mind the cold." Research suggests that about 11 percent of Britons plan to delay turning on their heating until late November, a group likely to include these ESBs. They might suggest putting on a sweater or an extra pair of socks, even in frigid conditions.
ESBs are also known for sharing unsolicited "smug facts" about energy consumption, such as the £80 annual cost of leaving appliances on standby. They may also appear to have gained weight during colder months, only for it to be revealed they are wearing multiple layers of clothing, including jumpers, scarves, and long johns, as a means to avoid turning up the thermostat.
Hypervigilance regarding the thermostat is another hallmark trait. Some reports indicate that a significant percentage of adults admit to secretly adjusting the thermostat behind their partner's back. ESBs may also be constantly checking and re-checking the temperature to maintain a precise, low ambient temperature.
Socially, ESBs can be draining, particularly when they attempt to engage others in the "gamification" of energy saving, such as discussing energy apps or meter readings, especially in social settings like pubs. Their preferred method of staying warm often involves electric blankets, which some models can now be controlled via apps.
Humor is not typically their strong suit, as evidenced by the common riddle about energy-saving bores and lightbulbs. They may also adhere to heating only one room in the house, leaving other areas significantly colder. Furthermore, the wearing of bed socks is considered a typical, albeit unglamorous, accessory for those aiming to conserve energy.
This phenomenon highlights a growing trend in awareness and, for some, obsession, surrounding energy consumption and cost-saving measures during periods of rising utility prices.