You’re savvy, eco-conscious, and want to do your part in fighting climate change, but you’re also working with a tight budget. You might think going green is a luxury you can’t afford, but here’s the truth: embracing clean energy doesn’t have to break the bank.
In fact, with a few smart strategies, you can shrink your carbon footprint and utility bills at the same time. Here are some practical tips for budget-conscious individuals looking to make a positive impact on the planet.
Embrace energy efficiency at home
One of the simplest ways to reduce your carbon footprint and save money is to make your living space more energy-efficient. Simple changes can significantly reduce utility bills. Try:
- Using LED light bulbs
- sealing air leaks
- adjusting your thermostat
- getting new water heaters
Here’s what happens if you do just two of those things:
Change your lighting
Lighting utilizes about 15% of the power in a typical home. By using LED lights, you can save around $225 on energy bills each year. If you’re still using old bulbs, changing to lights that use less energy is one of the best ways to cut your costs quickly.¹
To get the most for your money and save maximum energy, choose bulbs with the ENERGY STAR® label. These bulbs meet the Department of Energy’s high standards, so you know you’re making a wise choice for your budget and the environment.¹
Put in new water heaters
Water heaters, especially older models, use the second highest amount of energy in your home. But, by installing a new ENERGY STAR® certified heat pump water heater, a family of four can save about $550 a year on their energy bills.²
Plus, you can get even more savings with federal tax credits of up to $2,000 and rebates from power companies participating in the program.²
These savings and tax credits can add a lot of money to your bank account while doing less harm to the planet.
Take advantage of community solar programs
Community solar programs allow people to subscribe to a portion of a solar farm and get utility bill credits for the clean energy produced. This option is perfect for those who rent or live in apartments and can’t install solar panels on their own.
Joining a community solar project can also help save money on your electricity bills while supporting the growth of renewable energy in your area.
Community solar projects can save you 5-15% on your electricity bills. More good news: many states offer incentives or tax credits for participating in community solar programs, which can further increase your savings.³
Opt for green transportation
Your transportation could be a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. That’s especially true of gas cars since they have tailpipe emissions, unlike electric cars.
By choosing eco-friendly transportation options, you can reduce your carbon footprint and save money on fuel costs.
Consider biking, walking, or using public transit for quick trips. If you need a car, consider electric or hybrid vehicles. While their cost might be higher at first, over time, they can save you money on gas,⁴ and with tax incentives.⁵
You can get tax breaks for purchasing electric vehicles or installing charging stations at home. The federal government tax credit is up to $7,500 for buying a new electric car, depending on its battery capacity. Additionally, electric vehicles can save you money on gas, as electricity is usually cheaper.⁵
Start your clean energy journey today
Adding clean energy to your life doesn’t have to break the bank. Making small changes at home, using shared solar power, and choosing green travel can save you money while helping the planet.