Thanksgiving is around the corner and now we have to accept that winter is upon us and here to stay for a while. The easy tips below will keep your home comfortable, while also keeping your electric and heating bills in check. Adjust your thermostat. The Department of Energy recommends setting the temperature at…
Winter weather is upon us, and you’ll likely get a reminder of that when you receive your next energy bill. It’s a good time to think about ways to keep costs as low as possible. Energy audits are a great way to uncover opportunities to save energy and money. CUB posted a blog about the benefits…
When purchasing new appliances or electronic equipment, consider looking beyond the price tag and thinking about total cost over the entire time you will have that item, including how much energy it will use. The Energy Star label can help you find equipment that will save you energy – and save you money over the…
When talking about energy saving tips, we often get asked, “I’m a renter. What can I do to save energy?” We typically respond: “Quite a lot actually.” There are some obvious limits to renters’ options for controlling energy consumption. For example, renters aren’t likely to go and buy their own energy efficient refrigerator or replace…
At the request of the Citizens Utility Board, Governor Dayton has declared October Energy Awareness Month in Minnesota. With this proclamation, Governor Dayton is emphasizing the importance energy plays in our lives and in the economy of Minnesota. Minnesota has been a leader in creating an energy supply that is cheaper, cleaner, and more reliable….
October 1 marks the start of a multi-year electric rate increase for Xcel Energy electric customers. While it is pretty straight-forward to understand that your bills are about to increase, the details behind utility rate increases can be confusing. That’s one reason CUB exists – to help consumers understand their energy bills and provide ideas…
The falling cost combined with the performance of LED light bulbs has transformed the way we light our homes and businesses. But, it has also generated a lot of confusion that was not there before. Now, instead of looking just at the watts, there are many different characteristics of an LED light bulb that must…
Published September 5, 2017 With the passing of Labor Day, our summer is unofficially over. As you get ready for the inevitable cooler weather ahead, here are a few easy tips to try to keep your home running efficiently and your energy bills as low as possible. Adjust your thermostat. The Department of Energy recommends…
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…
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…
