A survey of households by the price comparison site GoCompare in conjunction with the Energy Saving Trust, has revealed just how much energy is wasted by Christmas lighting.
The survey released on 10 November found that 52% of respondents intended to display decorative Christmas lighting outside their homes.
GoCompare calculated that switching on a display of 100 five-watt bulbs for six hours a day over the festive period will consume 207 Kwh, which is equivalent to 22.8 days of the average household's electricity consumption.
Consumers keen to get in the festive spirit could, however, reduce their energy bills by purchasing energy-saving Christmas decorations. Although LED Christmas lighting often costs more than traditional alternatives, in the long term it consumes far less energy, which leads to lower electricity bills and reduces the environmental impact.
