The Energy Saving Trust has arrived in Northumberland to help businesses shave up to 15 per cent off their fuel bills as rising fuel costs become a major headache for drivers across the North East.

Its Smarter Driving Programme trains employees in techniques to help them drive more efficiently and is a proven method of reducing the cost of fuel and the likelihood of accidents.
 
It is estimated that drivers who complete the course could enjoy as much as 20p savings per litre and a motorist who completes 12,000 miles a year could save up to £250 on fuel.
 
The Energy Saving Trust is urging businesses in Northumberland to consider taking the course to not only cut down their company fuel spend, but to also make significant reductions to their carbon emissions.
 
One organisation that has already seen the benefits of Smarter Driving is Northumberland County Council, according to Tony Greig, the Energy Saving Trust’s Smarter Driving fleet consultant for the North East the Energy Saving Trust. He said that following the training the Council has seen a significant rise in fuel economy for drivers, shifting from an average of 38.5mpg to 44.2mpg: “We know that rising fuel bills can really affect a company’s balance sheet. It’s why some of the big players like Boots and the NHS have already put their staff through our courses to cut down costs and improve their green credentials.
 
“Smarter driving is all about reducing fuel consumption through a few simple techniques. Our trainers work on tips such as changing up at low revs and helping drivers anticipate the road further ahead.
 
Courses start and finish at the workplace and take just 50 minutes per person to complete, so disruption to the working day is minimised. Vehicles and insurance are provided by the Energy Saving Trust.
 
It is anticipated that around 10,000 employees across England – working for organisations which operate company fleets of more than 20 vehicles – will be trained by the Energy Saving Trust by the end of March 2013.
 
Smarter Driving training is subsidised by the Department for Transport and costs just £25 per driver. 

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