How to Reduce Residential Energy Consumption

When provided with more information, residential consumers are able to better understand and in turn reduce their energy consumption and costs. Customized recommendations based on tracked behavior around the home and specific energy data for electronics and appliances reveal what changes can have the largest impacts on the wallet and the earth.

In one example, a resident changes her flat rate utility tariff to a time-of-use tariff, which allows her to save money by switching some of her energy usage to lower cost off-peak hours. Additionally, she installs a smart thermostat, which helps her closely monitor heating and cooling and ensures she is not wasting energy while she is away from home.

Her new low-flow faucets cut energy demand by lowering the quantity of hot water she uses and the amount of power needed to pump the water through her plumbing system. Similarly, replacing incandescent light bulbs with LEDs, which have much longer lifespans, can lower operating costs by a factor of five. Lastly, unplugging vampire appliances, which consume energy while they are switched off or in standby mode, or powering off outlets would save the average U.S. family about $100 per year. With increased visibility into home energy management, residents can make smarter investments with the best economic and environmental returns.

What ways have you found to reduce residential energy consumption? Let us know on Twitter!

Related Resources:

• 3 Ways to Improve Your EPA 1-100 Water Score
• 5 Ways to Lower Your Utility Bills This Summer
• Solutions Sheet: Utility Data for Sustainability

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