Energy efficient resolution for 2012

Ausgrid is encouraging households to take a few simple steps to cut energy use and make 2012 an energy efficient year.
Ausgrid energy efficiency expert Paul Myors said using energy efficiently was the simplest way to cut household electricity bills.
“The carbon price will come into effect from July and it’s estimated to add about 10 per cent to a typical household’s electricity bill,” Mr Myors said.
“The good news is that there are some simple steps you can take to reduce your energy use by more than 10 per cent,” he said.
“We’re building some of the biggest homes in the world and we’re filling them with more appliances and lighting.
“However a typical household of four people can save up to $400 a year off its energy bill and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 30 per cent by following a few simple tips.
“Hot water is the biggest energy user in the average home but reducing your shower by two minutes can save you up to $100 per year and cut 0.8 tonnes of CO2 emissions.
“Greenhouse intensive electric hot water systems are still slated for the chop so it’s a good time to explore any government rebates that may be available for converting to a solar, heat pump or gas hot water system.
“During summer consider using a fan rather than the air conditioner on days that aren’t too hot. Air conditioners can cost around $250 a year to run, while fans cost as little as $5 a year.
“Air conditioners are also one of the biggest contributors to peak electricity demand, which also drives up the cost for maintaining and building the electricity network.
“The cheapest and easiest way to cut your energy use by up to 10 per cent is to eliminate standby power. Turn off appliances at the power point where practical and save up to $80 a year on energy bills.”
Top five tips for an efficient 2012
1. Convert your hot water system – A more energy efficient option can save up to three tonnes of CO2 a year and up to $250 a year off bills. Government rebates may still be available for some homeowners.
2. Get rid of that old second fridge – Old fridges can use two to three times the electricity of a newer fridge. Getting rid of the old fridge can save more than $250 a year on bills and reduce greenhouse by up to one tonne a year.
3. Switch to gas – Gas has around one third of the greenhouse emissions of electricity.
4. Use the clothes line instead of a dryer – Apartment dwellers can now dry clothes on the balcony with strata approval and save up to $60 per year and 0.3 tonnes of CO2.
5. Switch off standby power – Standby power can account for up to 10 per cent of household energy use. Home office and entertainment appliances are the worst offenders. Switch appliances off at the power button or the wall.