Many sites are now introducing metered Hook Up.  We look at why these sites are metering & suggest some tips.

Tens of thousands of members of the Caravan & Motorhome Club love staying on the network of over 2,000 5-van sites known as CLs, not only for their tranquility or location but also because they are generally a lot cheaper than commercial sites. 

The vast majority (80%) of these small rural sites offer Electric Hook Up, but with the rising costs of electricity and uncertainty over the future, many site owners are installing some form of metering. The reason why sites are charging for electricity usage - particularly in the winter months -  will depend on the specific circumstances of each site, but here are some of the common reasons;

+ Increased costs: As the cost of electricity rises (and everything else that owners need to pay for such as insurance, CDP emptying and mower fuel), sites may need to pass those costs onto their customers to remain financially viable and available in coming years.. 

+ Fairness: Rather than offering everyone unlimited electricity, metering based on usage is usually seen as the fairer option.

+ Conservation: Charging for electricity usage can help encourage visitors to conserve energy and be mindful of their environmental impact. It will also likely deter visitors from trying to heat their awnings, which is impossible to do economically. This can also be important for very remote rural sites that may have a limited supply from the National Grid.

Advice

When booking a 5-van site, be sure to check whether the nightly pitch fee includes an allowance for electricity.  Whilst some sites do not yet meter, those that do may include 10-15kWh within their pitch price.

Checklist

1. Check meter reading on arrival & monitor daily.

2. Lower your thermostat.

3. Switch off heating when out for the day

4. Reduce power (down to 1kWh)

5. Use curtains 

6. Use gas if you can

7. Don't heat an awning.