Why Save Energy?

Westend61/ Westend61/Getty images

Why should we save energy? You’ve probably heard about green energy and the aim to reduce carbon emissions to slow climate change. The green movement has spread across the world, empowering people to make more sustainable choices. But did you know that green energy can be the best choice for your wallet and the planet? Learn more about why it’s important to save energy and ways to save on energy today.

Why do we need to conserve energy?

Energy conservation is both a financial and environmental concern. Reducing energy usage can help lower your energy bills and improve your carbon footprint.

Increased financial savings

First and foremost, conserving energy can save you money. As global energy prices rise, cutting your energy usage by even a small amount can help you keep more money in the bank. For many, that could mean extra funds each year to tackle debt, create long-term savings, or achieve other financial goals. 

Lower carbon emissions

The importance of saving energy doesn’t stop at simply putting money in the bank — it can also help protect the planet we call home. Conventional energy production releases carbon and other greenhouse gasses into the environment. The higher the emissions — through energy, transportation, and other sources — the higher your carbon footprint. 

Carbon emissions play a significant role in climate change. Researchers from the National Wildlife Federationlink increased emissions to major natural disasters in recent years, including:

• Droughts
• Extreme heat waves
• Flooding
• Harmful algal outbreaks
• Hurricanes
• Megafires

With billions of harmful emissions in the atmosphere, we have the power to make a difference. While we can’t make the change alone, reducing carbon emissions in your own home or business can help make a small step toward preventing further dangerous environmental trends.

Why is it important to save energy?

If you’re still asking yourself why we should save electricity, it helps to understand the direct impacts of global warming on our daily lives. Reduced emissions result in cleaner air quality, which, in turn, can improve your health and quality of life. The World Economic Forum suggests that clean air zones in the U.K. can prevent unwanted deaths, save money in cities, and improve overall well-being. 

By saving energy, we can create a healthier planet and sustain our existing resources. It can help ensure that our planet’s rivers, forests, parks, and diverse wildlife are around for future generations.

Ways to save energy

You can save energy by reducing total energy consumption and switching to green energy. Here are specific ways to implement these methods:

• Reduce heating in winter and cooling in summer by one to three degrees
• Unplug unused electronic devices
• Turn off lights
• Swap out incandescent bulbs for LED bulbs
• Hang clothes to dry (instead of using the dryer)
• Reduce water consumption
• Improve home insulation
• Invest in a wood-burning stove
• Install energy-efficient appliances
• Install solar panels at home or invest in community solar

How much can I save?

According to the Energy Information Administration (EIA), the average American household uses 899 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per month, with an average monthly bill of $138.90. Changing providers, reducing energy consumption, or choosing sustainable energy sources could save you a significant amount on your monthly energy bill. Your exact savings depend on the average price of electricity near you, the plans available, and your energy habits. In addition, some electric companies now offer green energy plans from 100% renewable energy sources.

There is always room to keep learning and improving your energy habits. Explore our energy resources to dive deeper, or enter your ZIP code to find affordable electricity in your area.