Ethical Home Energy & Electricity Guide
Reduce electricity use and switch to clean power.
Compare efficiency upgrades (LEDs, thermostats, insulation), renewable energy options, and standby power waste. Real impacts on carbon, bills, and comfort.
What this covers
- Quick wins (no cost / low cost): Turn off standby power, adjust thermostat, use natural light, seal air leaks. Savings: $200-500/year.
- Efficiency upgrades (mid-cost): LED lighting, programmable thermostat, smart power strips, weatherstripping. Payback: 1-3 years.
- Major upgrades (high cost, long payback): Insulation, heat pump, solar panels. Payback: 5-15 years.
- Renewable energy options: Community solar, solar panels, wind (if applicable), green power plan from utility.
- Where electricity comes from: Coal, natural gas, nuclear, renewables. Your grid mix by location.
Quick Efficiency Wins (Low or No Cost)
These changes take minutes to hours and save $200-500/year with zero upfront cost.
What matters most to you?
Quick take: If you only do 3 things: (1) Kill standby power (unplug/power strips), (2) Switch to LED bulbs, (3) Adjust thermostat 2°F. These three: $300-500/year savings, zero upfront cost.
Efficiency Win
BestDescription.
Annual savings
Upfront cost
Impact breakdown
How to do it
Renewable Energy Options
Solar panels, community solar, green power plans, local wind. Options depend on your location, budget, and home characteristics (roof condition, shade, local utility).
Pick a renewable option
Option
Cost range
Payback period
Upgrade your home energy
Tell us your current situation. We’ll explain impacts and suggest realistic next steps.