BY ABBY BERRY
There are a variety of reasons why people are interested in cutting back on energy consumption. You may be primarily motivated to save on monthly energy bills or more concerned about reducing your personal carbon footprint.
Actively practicing energy efficiency and conservation provides multiple benefits. For parents, being more conscious about energy use can be a tool to teach kiddos about sustainable habits for the future. Conserving energy also means fewer carbon emissions, which results in better air quality and a healthier environment. Plus, saving money on our monthly utility bills is a great reason to monitor home energy use.
No matter why you’re interested in using less energy, there are several smartphone apps to help you achieve meaningful energy savings.
Smart thermostat apps
Smart thermostats and their accompanying apps are handy and promote energy-efficient behavior. These devices have become much more affordable over the years. You can purchase an ENERGY STAR®-certified smart thermostat for as low as $100, which can save you approximately 8% on annual heating and cooling costs, about $50 per year. The device will quickly pay for itself, and you’ll gain insight into better ways to heat and cool your home.
Plus, the ability to control the thermostat from anywhere can equate to real savings. We recommend trusted brands and devices, like Google’s Nest Learning Thermostat and Ecobee’s Smart Thermostat.
Energy cost calculators
If you want to reduce energy use at home, it’s essential to know where your consumption is going. Energy cost calculators can help pinpoint your energy use with a few simple steps and identify areas to save. The concept is simple; plug in the wattage of your various appliances and how often you use them to see which are using the most energy.
Most energy cost calculator apps are free and can be downloaded to any Apple or Android device. If you browse the app store, you’ll find multiple energy cost calculator apps, but most are similar in functionality. Be sure to read the app’s reviews and download the one that best aligns with your energy efficiency goals.
JouleBug app
If you’re competitive and enjoy gamifying, the JouleBug app is right up your alley. JouleBug makes energy conservation simple and fun through personal tasks and badges earned within the app, group challenges you can tackle with friends, and communities you can join to learn about local sustainability efforts. The JouleBug app is free and can be downloaded to Apple or Android devices, and it’s an easy tool to make saving energy fun.
These are just a few apps that can help you find new ways to save energy. Smart light bulbs are typically paired with apps for convenient control of home lighting; smart plugs also come with apps to help you control how you power everyday devices and electronics.
Whether you use an app or not, saving energy is always a smart idea that can help you save money on your monthly bills and reduce your carbon footprint.
Abby Berry writes on consumer and cooperative affairs for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, the national trade association representing more than 900 local electric cooperatives.
