As much as 20% of the energy we currently consume can be saved through easy, inexpensive behaviour changes.
Eskom recently noted that the biggest contributor to energy bills are geysers, which eat into as much as 39% of SA consumers monthly energy usage.
Eskom also stressed that even in standby mode, TVs, DVD players and set top boxes still use up to 50% off their operating power.
Mobile phone charges also continue to draw electricity unless turned off at the plug.
Here are some tips to make your home and business more energy efficient:
- Lighten up: Lighting expenses can account for as much as 50% of the energy bill of a business, so turn off any lights not in use and switch to lower-wattage bulbs.
- Change your bulbs: Replace incandescent light bulbs with energy efficient compact fluorescent lamps, which last 10 times longer and cost less to operate.
- Power down: Ask employees to switch off nonessential equipment overnight, including computers, copiers, and printers, which continue to draw electricity even when in standby mode.
- Give your office a holiday: If your business closes down for extended periods during the year, such as over Christmas, ensure your geyser and other nonessential appliances and equipment are turned off.
- Climate control: Over-heating or cooling your office can increase your energy bill by 7% for every degree. Ideal temperatures range between 18° and 21° in summer and 24° in winter.
- Hot water: Reducing the set temperature on your geyser by 10° will save you over 5% of its energy usage cost. Increase this even more by insulating your hot water pipes and ensuring that your geyser is regularly serviced.
As part of its commitment to energy efficiency, GE has established a new company called Current, which is expected to change the power game.
The startup combines energy hardware with a digital backbone to make power simpler and more efficient for customers.
It brings together GE’s LED, Solar, Energy Storage and Electric Vehicle businesses as a one-stop shop for customers.
The following video outlines how Current is making a difference in the energy space.
GE Current Infographic
