Published August 11, 2017 October is Energy Awareness Month! How are you celebrating? October was first declared Energy Awareness Month by President George H. W. Bush. CUB, along with many of our partners, is looking forward it. Many Minnesota companies and organizations are observing Energy Awareness Month with educational programming or efforts to help members…
10Aug
There’s a Rebate for That
Published August 10, 2017 When we give presentations to groups around the state, one of our favorite money saving tips is to take advantage of rebates and discounts offered by your local utility. CUB has a handy online tool to help you find those rebates. Here is a brief explanation of why it makes so…
28Jul
Home Energy Audit – a Next Step in Energy Savings
When it comes to residential energy efficiency efforts, at CUB we promote free and easy first. For other efforts that may involve a substantial investment, we highly recommend getting a professional home energy audit. Why? You need to understand where exactly there is potential for energy savings and an energy audit will answer that question….
12Jul
Easy Summer Energy Saving Tips
Published July 12, 2017 For most households, their highest electricity bills come in the summer. This is typically due to using air conditioning, which uses a lot of energy. On those hot, humid days you may really need to use the AC, so here are some tips to try to minimize the impact on your…
07Jul
Xcel Energy Offers Two Renewable Energy Programs
Published July 7, 2017 In April 2017, Xcel Energy rolled out a new renewable energy program called Renewable Connect that allows customers to source their electricity from wind and solar energy. Until recently, there was a waiting list, and now the program is again accepting new enrollees. Renewable Connect is a new addition to Xcel’s…
30May
Getting Ready for Higher Summer Electric Rates
Published May 30, 2017 With the Memorial Day weekend comes the unofficial start to the Minnesota summer. A few days later, on June 1, higher summer electric rates begin for Xcel customers and continue through September. (Lower winter rates are in effect from October through May.) Residential electric rates go up in the summer to…
08May
Time to Tune the AC
Published May 8, 2017 Aside from a little snow early this month, it’s been a great May! Now is a good time to make sure your air conditioner is in tip top shape. While you’re doing your spring yard clean up, make sure your AC unit is free of debris. Additionally, just like furnaces, air…
26Jan
Request a presentation – CUB is booking events for spring/summer
Published January 26 We love speaking with community groups about utility issues, and we do it at no charge. Providing free educational programs is one of primary missions. This is an interesting time for the energy sector and we want to help consumers sort through their choices. We can provide presentations on how to understand…
04Jan
Start a Warm Breeze this Winter
Published January 4, 2017 We’re in the midst of a cold Minnesota winter and your furnace or boiler has been getting a lot of use. You probably haven’t been thinking about turning on a fan. However, all of you out there with a ceiling fan- turn it on. But, make sure its going the right…
27Dec
Plan Ahead – Get LED Holiday Lights for Next Year Now
Published December 27, 2016 Many people love shopping after the holidays and picking up seasonal bargains. If you like decorating your home with holiday lights, think about adding discounted LED holiday lights to your shopping list. LED lights use less energy than traditional light bulbs so you will use less electricity, which is good for your budget…