June 21, 2007

With summer here, the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) reminds utility customers that there are a variety of things they can do to lower electric bills.

"From using compact fluorescent bulbs, to using air conditioning efficiently, there are many simple, low-cost actions customers can take to lower their summer electric bills," said MPSC Commissioner Monica Martinez.

To lower bills:

• Seal air leaks around doors and windows.
  
  
• Clean air conditioner filters and coils every month to make them more energy efficient.
  
  
• Use a programmable thermostat. Setting it 10 degrees warmer when not at home can save 3 to 5 percent on electric bills.
  
  
• Use fans - they can make the use of an air conditioner unnecessary. Ceiling fans, for example, can make a room feel six to seven degrees cooler.
  
  
• Lower the temperature on the hot water heater to 120 degrees, a setting comfortable for most uses.
  
  
• Plant leafy trees that shield the house from direct sunlight, keeping temperatures down. In addition, planting drought-resistant perennials, shrubs and trees can save on water bills.
  
  
• Unplug certain appliances when not in use. Computers, cell phone chargers, MP3 players, televisions, VCRs, DVD players, stereos and microwave ovens all use energy when plugged into electric outlets.
  
  
• If you are in the market for a new appliance, purchase an energy-efficient model with the Energy Star label.
  
  
• Take advantage of federal tax credits that are available for home energy efficiency improvements made in 2007. Tax credits of up to $500 are available to customers who purchase and install energy-efficient windows, insulation, doors, roofs and heating and cooling equipment in their principal residence in the United States . Credits vary according to the improvement made. Specific tax benefits for the home include:
  
  
  • $50 for purchasing an advanced main air circulating fan;
  • $150 for installing a highly efficient furnace or boiler;
  • $200 for installing energy efficient windows; and
  • $300 for purchasing a highly efficient central air conditioner, heat pump or water heater.
  • $500 for insulation and exterior doors.

For more details on the tax credits available, visit the U.S. Department of Energy Web site at energy.gov /taxbreaks.htm.

The MPSC Web site offers a number of consumer alerts that provide information on bill payment assistance and additional energy saving tips: michigan.gov/mpscalerts.

The U.S. Department of Energy has more tips available at energysavers.gov.

More ideas are available in a The Edison Electric Institute's online brochure entitled "More than 100 Ways to Improve Your Electric Bill":

http://www.eei.org/industry_issues/retail_services_and_delivery/wise_energy_use/100Ways.pdf

The MPSC is an agency within the Department of Labor & Economic Growth.