May 25, 2006

With summer approaching, 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 and low-cost actions customers can take to lower their summer electric bills," said MPSC Chairman J. Peter Lark.

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 2006 and 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 www.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: www.michigan.gov/mpscalerts.

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