PUCO highlights the benefits of energy efficiency and conservation

COLUMBUS, Ohio – With Earth Day happening this weekend, The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) reminds Ohioans that energy efficiency benefits you, your household and the environment. A few simple steps can help you to save money, help the environment and take better control of the energy used in your home year round.

Save money

Heating and cooling account for a large portion of home energy bills. Undertaking home upgrades, switching to ENERGY STAR® appliances and adjusting your daily routine are all ways to lower your annual energy bills. Things as simple as switching to more energy-efficient appliances and light bulbs or adjusting the thermostat at night or while you are away can save hundreds of dollars every year.

Help the environment

Energy efficiency and conservation saves resources and limits our impact on the environment. According to the Alliance to Save Energy, the United States uses 56 percent less energy than it would if it did not have energy-efficient technologies and policies. This Earth Day, remember that not only does energy efficiency help your wallet, it can help the environment too.

Take control of energy usage

Whether it is staying warm in the winter or cool in the summer, energy efficiency and conservation measures can help to make that happen. A home with energy efficient windows and well insulated walls can help to keep the temperature in your home exactly where you like it. Simply putting down more rugs helps to retain more heat in your home and hanging curtains can help to keep it cool.

Look into utility programs

Many of Ohio’s distribution utilities offer ways to help you with energy efficiency and conservation around your home. Check with your local distribution utilities for energy efficiency incentives and programs they may offer. Some of these offers include weatherization, appliance rebates or energy use audits.

In these ways and more, energy efficiency is beneficial to Ohioans. For tips on how to make your home more energy efficient, visit the PUCO website at www.PUCO.ohio.gov.