News

Holiday lights and energy efficiency

Nov 22, 2022

Light it up efficiently … Ready to decorate for the holidays? GRDA is sharing some important tips for holiday efficiency and safety this season.

The holiday lights are going up everywhere and shining through the night, which likely means a little more electric usage for most of us. However, even with the extra lights and other holiday-related activities requiring more energy use (like baking), it’s still possible to conserve some electricity. Although we have shared the following information before, it’s a good time to revisit some holiday-related energy tips from Department of Energy.

1. About those holiday lights… Considering plugging your lights and electronics into a power strip and then turn it off during the day or when not in use. Even when not in use, these items can still draw small amounts of unnecessary energy.
2. Consider LED lights in your displays. They are sturdier and can last longer while consuming up to 70 percent less energy.
3. Keep the door closed … Whether it’s the door to the house or to the oven, it applies for the same reason. We can save heat loss and energy by using the oven light, instead of opening the door, to check on the progress of those cookies. The same applies for the door on the house, keep the warmth inside.
4. Let the sunshine in. Even when it’s cold out, a sunny day can help warm your home if you open the curtains.
5. Here’s a gift idea … Home Energy Audit. According to energy.gov, “a home energy audit helps you pinpoint where your home is losing energy — and what you can do to save money.” Upgrades after an energy audit could save you as much as 30 percent on future energy bills in the year ahead.

Keep these tips in mind and enjoy your holiday season.

GRDA is Oklahoma’s largest public power electric utility; fully funded by revenues from electric and water sales instead of taxes. Each day, GRDA strives to be an “Oklahoma agency of excellence” by focusing on the 5 E’s: electricity, economic development, environmental stewardship, employees and efficiency.