Step 2: ACT

Take action. Save money. Reducing your energy use can be simple AND save you money.

Follow the simple steps below to reduce your energy consumption.Then go to Step 3, Fund, to offset your remaining emissions and support clean energy in Colorado.

Power strips – watch out for phantoms (loads, that is). Did you know that 75% of the electricity used for appliances and electronics in an average US household is consumed when the products are turned off? To reduce your power load consumption, plug your electronics into power strips that you can turn off when not in use.

Rechargeable batteries – opt for the more cost-effective rechargeable batteries over the throw-aways. And don't forget to unplug your battery charger when the charge is complete!

Computers – consider a laptop, (more energy efficient than a desktop) for your next purchase. Leaving for a while? Turn off your monitor for absences longer than 20 minutes; turn off your computer when you’re away for more than two hours.

Reusable water bottles – instead of buying disposable plastic water bottles, how about using a refillable bottle? In the US, the average person consumes nearly 30 gallons of bottled water each year. Think about how all those containers add up in the trash or recycling bin!

Reusable grocery bags – paper or plastic? Neither! Bring your own reusable bag when you go grocery shopping. The average American uses 500 plastic bags per year. Do your part and help to lower that number.

Eco-driving – This is easy. Don’t speed. Don’t idle. Avoid hard stops and quick starts. Yes, driving like grandma can improve your gas mileage by as much as 15%.

Wash cold; line dry – Wash your laundry in cold water and hang it out to dry. When you must use the dryer, use the cool down cycle to take advantage of the dryer’s residual heat.

Cooler hot water – Don’t get scalded by hot water. Set the temperature on your water heater to 120 degrees or lower to save as much as $25 a month.

Home energy audit – Don’t delay! Home energy audits can lower your heating/cooling bills while improving your energy efficiency and increasing your home's resale value. Contact your local utility provider or visit Recharge Colorado for a list of providers in your area.

Additional energy-saving tips, rebates and incentives, and an online energy action planner are just a few of the resources available at Recharge Colorado. Check out the site today!