How to reduce your energy cost amid tariff hike

Energy conservation is the act of reducing the amount of energy used while still accomplishing the same task. For example, you could conserve energy by turning off lights when you leave a room, or by using energy-efficient appliances. Energy conservation can be done at home, in businesses, and on a larger scale, like at the national level. It is important to conserve energy because it reduces our impact on the environment and saves us money. Energy conservation can also improve energy security and help avoid blackouts.

Initially, Nigerians were not well enlightened on the significance of energy conservation. The need to save energy had no meaning to many Nigerians until the introduction of prepaid electricity meters. Today, energy-saving bulbs are helping reduce energy consumption when compared to traditional ones. However, many have yet to switch to energy-saving bulbs because they are more expensive.

The first step to conserving energy is to ensure your bulbs and appliances are energy-efficient. Energy-saving appliances are designed to consume less electricity or fuel compared to standard models, resulting in cost savings and reduced environmental impact. These devices are designed to consume less energy while performing their intended functions compared to standard models. The appliances typically use advanced technologies and designs to minimise energy waste, thereby, reducing electricity consumption and lowering utility bills. They could be lightbulbs, television sets, air conditioners, refrigerators, dishwashers, washing machines, and others. It is easier to identify these devices because they usually come with energy efficiency labels.

It may not be easy to change all appliances at once, especially when the existing ones are still working. However, it must be put into plans that there is an important need to switch to devices that will save you money, conserve energy, and save the environment. The first step to achieve this is using Light Emitting Diode bulbs.

LED bulbs are highly energy-efficient. They consume significantly less energy compared to traditional incandescent bulbs, resulting in lower electricity bills.

Practising energy conservation involves adopting habits and making lifestyle choices that reduce energy consumption. Here are some ways to imbibe energy conservation:

Turn off lights when not in use

Everyone must make it a habit to turn off lights in unoccupied rooms to save electricity. It is not economical to leave bulbs on during the day or when going out. It is advised to turn off the lights to save energy costs. Use natural daylight whenever possible by opening curtains and blinds instead of relying on artificial lighting.

Unplug electronics

Electronics and electrical appliances must be unplugged when not used. Chargers, fans, appliances, and electronics should be removed from the socket when they are not in use to avoid phantom power consumption.

Use energy-efficient appliances

As discussed earlier, it is good to choose energy-efficient appliances to reduce energy consumption. This is very important, as it helps save money and energy. Changing appliances can be done one after the other to affect your finances.

Limit water heater temperature

Use water heaters only when necessary. Lower the temperature of your water heater to conserve energy used for heating water.

Air dry clothes

Instead of using an electronic dryer, spread your clothes on a clothesline outside to air-dry them. This will save a lot of energy.

Upgrade to energy-efficient lighting

As stated above, replace traditional incandescent bulbs with energy-efficient LED bulbs to save electricity.

Practise energy-saving habits at work

In your place of work, please practice energy conservation. Always remember to turn off computers, printers, fans, refrigerators, air conditioners, water dispensers, television sets, and other appliances and office equipment when not in use to save energy.

By incorporating these practices into daily routine, experts believe we can reduce energy costs, contribute to energy conservation, and reduce our environmental footprint. It will help mitigate the effects of electricity tariff hikes on Band A customers while preparing other bands for what is to come sooner rather than later. Aside from saving costs, practising energy conservation saves the little available energy for the benefit of others and it also reduces climate impact.