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The formulas are complicated (partly due to corporate and government politics), but we can tell you that two major inputs for the end-user cost of oil and gas energy are inventories and demand. If we use less, demand falls, and prices will follow. There is much you can do to use less energy, both in your home and in your daily life. Each month, we will post something to think about, as well as helpful hints on how to become more responsible neighbors.
Outdoor:
Use outdoor lights with a photocell unit or a motion sensor so they will turn on only at night or when someone is present. A combined photocell and motion sensor will increase your energy savings even more.
Before the heat bill hits:
Plug any air leaks. Common leaks occur around windows, doors, and other wall penetrations. Plugging with weather stripping and caulk can save you over $100 for the winter!
Buy Local – Buy Chicago:
Buying local produce and other perishable goods greatly reduces the amount of fossil fuels used to transport these goods from far away. Don’t forget, too, that the plastic used to package and ship these goods is made from crude oil as well!
Changing 5 of the most used lights in your home to CFLs will save you around $100 per year. Find the bulbs and the fixtures you want at our lighting partner
