Due to rising energy costs, over two-thirds (70%) of Londoners will not be putting up their Christmas lights this year, according to a survey carried out by lighting supplier Ultra LEDs.

This expected fall in the number of people putting up Christmas lights comes after a year of large increases in UK energy prices, which could soar as high as £3,702 a year for an average household in 2023.

With these price hikes, homes in the south are set to be a little less bright, despite the majority (86%) of Londoners saying that Christmas lights bring them joy over the festive period.

Council funded Christmas lights are also expected to take a hit, which is bad news for just over two-thirds (65%) of Londoners who say they will be disappointed if council funded lights are turned off due to the cost of living crisis.

The research further revealed the south’s unease surrounding the cost of living crisis, with over two-thirds (63%) worrying that the big day will be a disappointment. While over half (54%) say the prospect of Christmas in the current financial climate is making them feel depressed.

The survey results also found that 82% of London have said they’ll be spending less this year compared to last, on everything from gifts and clothes to food and drink. Although many said they feel guilty about having to do so.

What Londoners will be cutting back most on this Christmas:

Gifts (60%)

Decorations (47%)

Food and drink (46%)

Socialising with friends and family (29%)

Clothing (28%)

Attending parties (25%)

Matt Ellis, Chief Financial Officer at Ultra LEDs commented: “It’s no surprise that people are looking to cut back this season, following a tough few years, the current cost of living crisis and the impending recession.”

“That said, it’s a shame to see that so many people have decided not to put up Christmas lights as there are plenty of ways to get that festive feeling without spending a lot of money. LED lights, as an example, offer an energy-efficient, money-saving alternative to traditional lighting solutions.”

Tom Cain, Technical Engineer at Ultra LEDs also added “Based on the average household using 20 bulbs at 60 watts for five hours a day, you would typically enjoy a saving of around £400 per year by switching to LED bulbs. Moreover LED Festoon lights can be installed outside using trees, pergolas or fences and even on top of windows to add a bit of festive cheer, while LED strip lights can provide a party atmosphere inside at a much lower cost compared to incandescent lights.”