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Celebrate the Season Sustainably

As the festive season approaches, families are gearing up to decorate their homes, cook holiday meals, and host unforgettable gatherings. However, amidst all the joy, it's crucial to be mindful about energy consumption. Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) is stepping in to offer valuable insights aimed at reducing energy waste and keeping holiday expenses in check. Interested in celebrating sustainably? Here are some highlights of the energy efficiency tips PG&E has in store for you and your loved ones.

Understanding Your Energy Consumption

Recent statistics from the California Energy Commission reveal that a staggering 10% of a household's energy consumption is directly attributable to lighting, while kitchen appliances account for around 31%. With string lights twinkling, heating systems cranking up, and festive cooking taking place, winter energy bills often spike dramatically. Therefore, PG&E emphasizes the importance of incorporating energy-saving behaviors into your holiday rituals.

Energy Efficiency Tips for the Holiday Season

PG&E's Director of Building Electrification and Energy Efficiency, David Poster, states, "The holidays are all about connection and comfort. Customers can celebrate while keeping energy costs down by adopting a few simple steps into their holiday routine." Here are some actionable tips:

1. Adjust Your Thermostat

Did you know that reducing your thermostat by just one degree can save you up to 1% on your annual energy bill? A small change can yield significant savings over time.

2. Utilize Convection Mode

When baking, choose the convection setting on your oven. This method cooks food faster and at a lower temperature, efficiently saving both energy and money.

3. Embrace Batch Cooking

Cook side dishes simultaneously in your oven to cut prep time while running it for less duration, effectively saving energy.

4. Limit Oven Door Openings

Each time you open your oven door, you allow a temperature drop of up to 25 degrees. Instead, utilize the oven window to check on your cooking without losing heat.

5. Experiment with Alternative Cooking Methods

Consider using microwaves, slow cookers, or induction cooktops for meals, which tend to consume less energy compared to traditional stovetops.

6. Switch to LED Lights

Using LED holiday lights can lead to energy savings of at least 75% compared to traditional incandescent bulbs and significantly extends their lifespan.

7. Implement Smart Timers

Set up smart timers for your holiday lighting to automate on/off schedules, preventing energy wastage.

Gifts That Contribute to Efficiency

Gifting can also be considerate of energy efficiency:

• - The Induction Cooktop Loaner Program allows customers to borrow a single-burner induction cooktop and pan for two weeks at no cost.
• - Explore the range of Energy Star® certified appliances using PG&E’s free Energy Action Guide.
• - LED lights provide an average savings of $225 annually for American households.
• - Installing a smart thermostat can save you between $50-$78 a year.
• - Customers may save up to $78 monthly by switching from gas to efficient electric heat pumps for heating.
• - The Residential Charging Solutions program offers rebates for approved EV charging equipment, presenting a cost-effective approach to powering electric vehicles during off-peak hours.

Building an Energy Efficiency DIY Toolkit

Additionally, crafting a DIY toolkit filled with energy-efficient materials can further contribute to lowering your bills throughout the year. Find strategies to optimize your holiday season while ensuring sustainability in daily practices.

Other Resources To Manage Energy Costs

PG&E encourages customers to:

• - Visit their online account to find the most cost-effective rate.
• - Consider Budget Billing to average monthly energy costs, thus avoiding seasonal billing surprises.
• - Explore GoGreen Home Financing for affordable energy efficiency upgrades.
• - Access financial assistance programs if you need help with energy bill payments.

For further assistance, customers can visit pge.com/billhelp to check eligibility for support programs.

In conclusion, this holiday season provides ample opportunity to not only enjoy festivities but to also be conscientious of our energy consumption. Join PG&E in making sustainable choices for a brighter and more efficient future.