Manage your energy usage

Managing your energy usage doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

Whether you’re looking to make small changes or are ready for a big overhaul, every effort counts. Here are some tips that range from quick and easy fixes to more substantial investments.

Quick Wins $ 

• Our online energy portal myEnergy allows you to track when you’re using the most electricity, which can help you to use appliances in a more considered way and save money.
• Unplug idle electronics – many electronics consume energy even when they’re turned off. Unplug chargers, computers, and other devices when they’re not in use
• Switch to LED bulbs – replace your incandescent bulbs with LED ones. LEDs use up to 75% less energy and last significantly longer
• Adjust your thermostat – lower the thermostat by a few degrees in the winter and raise it in the summer. Every degree can save you up to 3% on your heating and cooling bill
• Wash clothes in cold water – Most of the energy used by a washing machine goes to heating the water. Use cold water settings whenever possible

Moderate Investments $$ 

• Install a programmable thermostat – a programmable thermostat can automatically adjust the temperature based on your schedule, saving energy without sacrificing comfort
• Seal leaks and insulate – check for drafts around windows and doors and use weather stripping or caulk to seal them. Add insulation to your attic to keep your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer
  
• Upgrade to energy-efficient appliances – when it’s time to replace an old appliance, choose ENERGY STAR-rated models. They use less energy and water than their non-certified counterparts
  
• Use ceiling fans – ceiling fans can help circulate air, allowing you to set your thermostat a few degrees higher in the summer and lower in the winter
• Maintain your heating/cooling system- Regular maintenance, like replacing filters and cleaning ducts, ensures your heating and cooling systems run efficiently 

Major changes for maximum impact $$$ 

• Install solar panels – solar panels can significantly reduce your electricity bills and your reliance on the grid. While the initial investment is high, government incentives can help offset the cost, and the long-term savings are substantial
• Upgrade windows – energy-efficient windows can reduce heat loss in the winter and keep your home cooler in the summer. Double or triple-pane windows are particularly effective 
• Invest in a high-efficiency heating/cooling system – replacing an old boiler or air conditioner with a high-efficiency model can cut your energy use for heating and cooling by up to 50% 
• Implement smart home technology – smart home systems can optimize your energy use by controlling lighting, heating, and cooling based on your habits and preferences. They can also provide real-time energy usage data to help you identify further savings