Los Alamos Reporter

County: Countdown To Public Power Week Oct. 1-7

Countdown to Public Power Week

 COUNTY NEWS RELEASE

The Los Alamos Department of Public Utilities (DPU) will be celebrating Public Power Week Oct. 1-7, along with the Public Power Association and 2,000 other community-owned, not-for-profit electric utilities that collectively provide electricity to 49 million Americans. This year, Public Power Week’s focus is on how public power utilities are working to ensure reliable, affordable, sustainable, and customer-focused service to their communities. 

In recognition of Public Power Week, DPU offers a few tips on how to save money and energy in your home.

  • According to the Alliance to Save Energy, the average U.S. home uses 70 light bulbs! If you haven’t yet done it, swap out old, incandescent bulbs for new LED bulbs. Per the Department of Energy, residential LEDs—especially ENERGY STAR-rated products—use at least 75% less energy, and last up to 25 times longer, than incandescent lighting. 
  • Heating and cooling your home uses a lot of energy. Adjusting your thermostat by just a couple degrees—lower in the winter and higher in the summer—saves energy and money on your utility bill. 
  • Unplug appliances or switch off your smart power strips when you aren’t using them. Even when they aren’t being used, they can draw “phantom power,” which wastes energy.
  • Your home’s water heater is a big energy user. Make sure to use cold water when you can and turn off the hot water while you are scrubbing your hands. Modern appliances and detergents are designed to clean just as well with cold water, where able.
  • Consider performing a DIY energy audit. Starting Nov. 1, check out DPU’s FLIR thermal camera at the Library of Things through the Los Alamos Public Library system. This device plugs right into your cell phone and will provide insight into hidden air leaks and lack of insulation in your home. 

“We know that using energy wisely to lower monthly electric bills is important to Los Alamos County residents. As we plan for the future, we encourage our customers to do their part to save energy,” said Utilities Manager Philo Shelton. “While we are sharing these tips during Public Power Week, we hope our community will keep an eye on energy efficiency all year round as we work to provide safe, reliable, affordable and renewable power supply.”