Advice on Saving Energy and Money

The changes that people can make to save on energy related costs are nothing new. Use less. Insulate. The key is learning the strategies for using less energy, because the cheapest kilowatt hour is the one you don’t use. For people enrolled in real-time pricing programs like Power Smart Pricing, it also involves learning the strategies for being smart about when you use power.

When travelling across Illinois for Power Smart Pricing, our staff members talk to many people who tell us that their bills are rising and they are out of ideas for lowering their costs. Some are interested in installing solar panels or wind turbines, but the initial installation price for large renewable energy devices can make them impractical for many families. The first step in saving energy is awareness. Then, do a little research into the kinds of no-cost and low-cost solutions that lower energy costs. Next, take positive steps towards that goal, while understanding that both large and small investments can make a difference when used appropriately.

Your bills won’t ever turn to zero, but if you can cut your energy use down by 20 percent that might give you an extra 40 dollars to spend on your family’s other needs. Combining a lot of little things will make a real difference but only you can take the first step.

Here are some helpful links:

http://www.keepwarm.illinois.gov/default.cfm
http://www.ilenergyraters.org/
www.energystar.gov
http://www.powersmartpricing.org/energy-saving-tips.php
www.energysavers.gov