weatherization & lighting upgrades
Xcel Energy is reminding customers that using electricity more wisely not only conserves the region’s natural resources but is an effective way of lowering monthly bills.
“Using electricity more efficiently is one of the most impactful actions any of us can take to protect the natural environment, and the beauty of energy efficiency is that we can also save money without sacrificing reliability and comfort,” said Adrian J. Rodriguez, president, Xcel Energy ,Texas.
“We’re doing our part by investing in a cleaner, more efficient electric system and we’re making it easier for our customers to do the same in their homes and businesses.”
In Texas, residential customers can access energy efficiency services provided by approved contractors at no cost. These contractors will test for air leaks around doors and windows and make basic upgrades to seal the home against the elements. Because heating and cooling make up close to half the annual electricity costs for typical customers, these improvements can noticeably reduce monthly bills. The cost of these services is shared by all customers through a small monthly charge, so no additional fees are required at the time the services are rendered. “The contractors may provide additional efficiency upgrades if a customer is interested in paying for the extra services, but there is no obligation to do so,” said Derek Wood, Xcel Energy product portfolio manager.
A list of approved efficiency contractors and information on Home Energy Services can be accessed at xcelenergyefficiency.com.
Xcel Energy’s incentives for business customers are based on estimated energy savings from efficiency upgrades, whether focused on lighting, heating or cooling. Xcel Energy uses approved contractors to guide customers through the retrofit process and verify the potential savings from investing in, for example, energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems. Information on Xcel Energy’s incentives for business customers can be found on the Business Savings page at xcelenergy.com.
In addition to these programs, Xcel Energy offers tips for using electricity wisely and saving money at its Energy Saving Tips page at xcelenergy.com. While some efficiency improvements involve long-term Many tips are simple and inexpensive to implement and are effective at reducing bills, including these tips for staying cool in the summer:
• Using weather stripping to seal doors and windows so cool air can’t escape.
• Raising the thermostat level when no one is at home, and then gradually returning to a more comfortable setting when the house is occupied.
• Investing in a “smart” thermostat that allows customers to program and/or adjust thermostat settings from a mobile device.
• Closing blinds and drapes during the heat of the day to block the heat from sunlight.
• Using fans to circulate air throughout the home, even when the air conditioning is on.
• Opening interior doors to allow cool air to circulate in the house. Or, if there is a part of the house not in use, closing it off to keep the cool air where it is desired.
• Putting off cooking and clothes drying and other chores that create heat inside the home until past 7 p.m.
• Shading air conditioning units to boost their efficiency.
Additionally, installing LED bulbs helps stretch savings further because they use 70-90% less energy and last 15 times longer. Xcel Energy has teamed up with select retailers in its Texas service area to provide discounts on certain LED bulbs. Customers can locate these retailers at the company’s Home Lighting page at xcelenergy.com