Many families and individuals can save on their utility costs by taking these simple steps to reduce home energy use:

• Replace incandescent lights with fluorescent lights whenever possible. In comparison to incandescent lights, fluorescent lights produce four times as much light per watt, last ten times longer, and cost 75% less to operate. 
• Use “task lighting” whenever possible, focusing light on the area or space it is needed instead of illuminating the entire room.
• Avoid over-lighting rooms. Use the smallest wattage lamp that provides the light you need.
• Keep light fixtures and bulbs clean and free of dust.
• Install solid state dimmers in areas where full lighting is not always required. Do not place compact fluorescent lamps on dimmers unless product packaging explicitly indicates that this is permitted. 
• Choose light colors for walls when decorating, since light colors reflect more light than dark walls.
• Install motion sensors on outside security lights.
• Install a timer to turn lights on and off while you are away from home for an extended period.
• Open window coverings to take advantage of natural daylight whenever possible.

Making these simple changes can result in significant home energy savings!