As the country head into the colder winter months, electricity consumption in households typically increases. Here are five tips to help people keep their costs down, while also taking climate action into account.
“For most households in the metro, the winter months are more expensive as we use more electricity. In addition, many more members of the households are still working remotely at home due to Covid-19 concerns, which continue to have an impact on energy usage and the bills. Furthermore, Eskom’s 15,06% price increase will have a substantial impact on household energy costs going forward. Therefore, by monitoring our energy consumption during the next few months, we can significantly reduce our electricity costs,” said Cape Town City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Energy and Climate Change, Councillor Phindile Maxiti.
“By making small changes in our daily lives, we can save energy and keep costs down, which is a win-win for our households and the planet. Any action we take to reduce energy consumption is a step in the right direction. Everyone can play their part, and by starting now, we can teach the next generation to be energy smart and to be future climate change champions,” he added.
Top five low cost tips to save electricity:
1. Your geyser:
Turn the geyser temperature down to 60°C.
2. Use less hot water:
Do not let the hot water run unnecessarily. Use cold water to wash hands instead of hot water. Use a basin plug when washing.
Shower instead of bathing. You will save up to 80% in water and use five times less electricity than heating bath water if you take a short shower.
3. Dry your laundry using sunshine where possible during those warm winter days and try not to use the tumble dryer. For rainy days, use drying racks indoors.
4. Use energy-saving light bulbs, such as LEDs. On average, they use six times less electricity.
Even burning for just two hours a day, the best-priced LEDs will pay for themselves in less than a year.
5. Use a stove plate that’s most similar to the size of your pot:
An electric stove loses up to 40% of its heat when the pot is too small, which means you waste electricity.
If people are able to spend more money on making smart changes around their home, they are encouraged to consider installing a solar water heater or heat pump, among others. These will cost more upfront but they could save as much as 50% on their monthly electricity costs. Please visit https://savingelectricity.org.za/ for more no-cost, low-cost and invest-to-save smart tips.
