Cut Energy Costs at Home

The Minneapolis College Sustainability Committee wants to help students and staff save energy and conserve the earth’s resources at the same time.

Together, we can make sure that no one is wasting precious utility funds, and everyone is getting the best possible advice about reducing home energy expenses.

Most important actions:

• Turn off and unplug computers or laptops when they are not being used. An illuminated computer screen sitting by itself is draining away money and contributing to pollution.
• Turn off the lights in any empty room. Use sunlight whenever possible to brighten workspaces.
• On cold days, be sure all windows and doors are closed before turning on the heat. When heating, bring the temperature up only as far as necessary for the comfort of people who are wearing warm indoor clothing.
• On humid days, try to use dehumidifying to make living spaces more comfortable.
• Use air conditioning only to bring the temperature down to a livable level. Do not expect to have a cool or cold living space in the summer. When using air conditioning, be sure all windows are closed; there is no point in trying to cool down the outdoors.

Get help reducing energy costs:

• Friendly people are ready to help make living spaces energy efficient.
• Anyone can sign up for the Minnesota Center for Energy and Environment’s FREE home energy audit. These visits can be done online without any outsiders entering a home space.
• After that audit, people can take advantage of any free equipment or cost-saving advice the consultant suggests.
• Anyone can find out about how to qualify for free in-home help to install the equipment or make other useful changes. People can go online to explore income qualifications and get scheduling information. During an appointment, the Home Energy Squad consultants will install energy-saving retrofits to a home.  

Get help paying energy bills:

• Anyone who has trouble paying electricity or gas bills can see if they qualify for help from the Minnesota Energy Assistance Program, see the guidelines and complete an application.

Want to learn more about the college Sustainability Committee? Contact Wendy Naughton.