Cantonwine and his fellow energy counselors came up with some easy-to-implement tips to get started. Start with a few and add more throughout the year.
Save energy inside
• Replace incandescent light bulbs with energy-efficient compact fluorescent bulbs that use 75 percent less electricity.
• Turn off lights and electronics when leaving a room.
• Turn down the thermostat a few degrees in winter and up a few degrees in summer, if you have air conditioning.
• Set the water heater thermostat between 120 and 130 degrees.
• Wash clothes in cold or warm water and rinse with cold.
• Unplug electronic chargers when not in use.
• Install low-flow shower heads and faucet aerators.
Ideas for outdoors
• Use public transportation, carpool, walk or bike once a week and then make it a habit. According to the EPA, leaving your car at home two days a week will reduce greenhouse gas emissions an average of 1,600 pounds a year.
• Use a manual lawn mower. At a minimum, have your gas-powered mower tuned up.
• Water lawns during morning or evening hours to reduce evaporation.
• Put outdoor lights, pumps and water features on timers to save electricity.
Recycle, reuse
• Get off junk mail lists.
• Buy used; donate outgrown, but still good, clothing.
• Recycle paper, metal cans, plastic tubs and bottles, and glass.
• Bring reusable bags to the grocery store.
Green Lights program
Clark Public Utilities customers can support the development of more renewable energy resources by participating in our Green Lights program. Green Lights cost $1.50 for a 100 kilowatt-hour block of electricity, in addition to your electric bill. Spending $6 a month will buy four blocks and create the environmental effect of not driving 7,200 miles and avoid creating 6.7 tons of carbon dioxide.
