If you’re reading this article, chances are you are concerned about climate change, and you would like to find a way to help. But, let’s face it, we all have bills to pay. In this current climate, many of us are struggling simply to make ends meet – and going green comes with a price tag, right? Wrong! What if we told you that taking small steps to make your home and lifestyle more environmentally friendly could actually save you money?
Energy Efficient = Cost Efficient
Switching to LED lightbulbs may cost more upfront, but those light bulbs will need replacing less often, and help you to use less electricity and lower your bills. Properly insulating your home may cost money upfront, but it could save you a small fortune on heating, and this too will lower your carbon footprint. Switch lights off when you leave the room, unplug electric appliances when you’re not using them, and buy a detergent that allows you to wash clothes at lower temperatures. All these small things will help to lower your bills and make you greener.
Travel Shouldn’t Cost the Earth
Electric vehicles (EVs) can save up to $1000 per year in fuel and running costs, and because they are powered by renewable energy produced by solar, wind, and other sources, they drastically decrease your carbon footprint. Installing an EV charging station and solar panels in your home optimizes savings by cutting gasoline and electricity costs simultaneously, creating, on average, 10 to 30 percent annual returns. Charging at home is a must, of course, if – as in many rural communities – you have no charging station close by. As many modern electric cars can drive roughly 250 miles without recharging, charging at home could even eliminate external charging stations from many people’s daily life, saving further costs.
Going Solar will Save you Money
Taking the plunge into solar may seem like a luxury you just can’t afford right now, but it could actually save you money – and sooner than you think. The Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC) and Xcel Energy Solar*Rewards Program are just two of the incentive programs you may be eligible for. There are also state-wide initiatives such as Minnesota Power’s Solar Sense Program, as well as many lesser-known grants, which could apply. Every homeowner’s situation is unique, but Cedar Creek Energy can plot out an individual plan which will maximize the return you make on your investment in solar energy.
There are so many ways going green can also save you money if you look at the big picture – from turning off lights, changing light bulbs, to switching to an EV, to installing solar panels. Cedar Creek Energy can help! With the many financial incentives currently available for solar, now is the time to find out what you could save. Get in touch today for a quote!