 TITLE: How to Lower Your Energy Bill CONTENT: How to Save on Electricity\n--------------------------\nReducing overall energy consumption and using energy more efficiently are the two primary ways renters and homeowners can save money on electricity costs. Making some of these changes can be free or low-cost, while more ambitious long-term solutions may require an investment. Here are some ideas to help you get started:\n*   **Minimize wasteful energy usage.** Always shut off lights and appliances that are not in use.\n*   **Reduce energy use from vampire loads.** Vampire loads, or electricity used by electronics and appliances that remain plugged in when they're not in use, can get costly. Plugging these items into power strips that you can turn off each night can save you.\n*   **Use power during off-peak times.** Many utility providers have programs that offer reduced rates or rebates on electricity used during off-peak hours. If you're not already on this type of plan, check with your provider to find out what your options are.\n*   **Use LED light bulbs and dimmer switches.** The upfront investment for LED light bulbs is slightly higher, but they last longer than incandescent bulbs. Dimmer switches allow you to adjust the brightness in the space.\n*   **Download a usage-tracking app.** These apps can tell you how energy is consumed in your home so you can identify ways to cut costs. Consider downloading the Sense app to monitor energy used by electronics and household appliances. If you have solar panels, the SolarEdge Monitoring app tells you how much solar energy is produced by the panels.\n*   **Get a home energy audit.** Some utility providers will come out to your home, assess the space and offer suggestions to help lower your energy usage for free. You can also hire an independent company to perform an energy audit for a fee.\n*   **Take advantage of renewable energy tax credits.** You may qualify for a federal tax credit if you install specific renewable-energy systems in your home. Visit Energy Star's website to learn more about the types of systems covered.\n*   **Use an energy-efficient water heater.** If you're thinking about purchasing a new water heater, consider energy-efficient models or even those that do not use any electricity.\n*   **Purchase energy-efficient appliances, electronics and lighting.** Energy Star appliances that meet the U.S. Department of Environmental Protection's (EPA) energy efficiency standards can help reduce energy use, lowering your energy bill.\n*   **Consider adding solar panels.** Solar panels use energy from the sun's rays to produce power. The cost savings of solar power over time can be significant, although a hefty initial investment is typically required. If you are interested in solar panels, you'll need to decide whether you want to rent or own them. Energy.gov offers a Homeowner's Guide to Going Solar if you're thinking about making the switch. END