Gecko Towers
Today we have the last in a series of articles from a guest contributor, John Pearce, an adviser on energy management.
The Covid Cost
The advice given by the experts is that we should wash our hands several times in the day whilst singing “Happy Birthday To You” twice. Based on the earlier figure of an annual cost of 180€ when the tap is opened three times a day (just to get the water to run hot) and assuming a minimum of six times a day, the “Covid Cost” will multiply this by at least two. The annual extra cost may be equal to a lavish birthday present!
Future Electricity Costs
Since the beginning of 2021 residential electricity bills in Spain have been rising month on month. There are many causes for this, including a dramatic increase in the costs of oil and gas as a result of the mismatch between supply and demand as the World adjusts to the new Covid era.
The target of becoming Carbon Neutral also has an effect on the costs in Spain as the coal fired power stations are being phased out, making the country more dependent on imported energy. The price paid to generators of electricity in Spain has quadrupled since June 2021 and at present shows little sign of reduction.
Whatever lies in the future, it would be prudent to prepare for ongoing high costs of electricity. The Spanish government foresaw this situation and reduced the tax on most homes from 25% to 5% to soften the impact. This reduction runs until the end of April 2022 and may or may not be extended. This tax reduction is, in effect, means tested as it only applies to homes with an available capacity (potencia) of less than 10kw. The possible savings in tax for available capacity below 10kw gives an added incentive for controlling the peak demand.
In Summary
These articles have been intended to show that there are steps that can be taken to control future energy costs, using practical measures.
Where a home is being renovated there are other ways in which the energy costs can be kept to a minimum.
The heating demand can be reduced by:
- Good insulation (roof, walls and windows) as well as proper insulation to water pipes.
- Location of water heaters close to the point of use.
- Installation of under floor heating with good temperature controls.
- Solar panels.
Should you be interested in discussing the legal process involved in buying a property in the Marbella region, we would be delighted to assist you. Our team of bi-lingual, highly experienced and wholly independent Abogados are ready to help you.
Please call me, Mark FR Wilkins, during usual business hours on +34 600 343 917 or, if you prefer, or e-mail me at mark@roslegal.es
Please note that our posts are for general interest. There is no substitute for proper legal advice tailored to your specific circumstances as provided by a qualified Abogado who is experienced in the application of the Spanish Law.
Nothing contained in this article should be seen or taken as the writer or the publisher providing legal or financial advice.
© Mark FR Wilkins 2022. All rights reserved.