How to Save Energy If You Work from Home

How to Save Energy If You Work from Home

Many of us have been working from home during the COVID-19 pandemic. Staying home might save you money on transportation, but it can also mean a higher home electricity bill. Here are some tips to help you take control of your energy consumption and minimize your electric bill during these trying times.

1. Choose your workspace wisely.

If you can, position your workspace by a natural light source. Opening the blinds limits your need for overhead lighting or a desk lamp and, as an added benefit, sunlight is good for your health.

2. Turn off electronics after work.

If you use appliances, such as a laptop or a monitor, turn them off after work hours to reduce power drain. Power strips with an on/off switch make it possible to control the energy consumption of all workstation devices at once. Simply flip the switch off when you aren’t using your devices. Sleep and power-saving modes can also reduce electricity usage.

3. Take advantage of time-of-use pricing.

If you’re on a Time-of-Use pricing plan, you can reduce your electricity bill by running larger appliances during off-peak hours. Being home all day means more flexibility to run your washing machine, dryer, and dishwasher when electricity costs less.

4. Bundle up.

Add layers instead of turning on your heater. Heating costs make up roughly 29% of the average electric bill, so take advantage of video calls and cozy up with a blanket for some significant energy savings.

5. Use energy-efficient appliances.

When you purchase office equipment, look for ENERGY STAR® certified models and consider upgrading other appliances to more energy-efficient models. Qualifying homeowners and renters in MCE’s service area can receive no-cost, energy-saving appliances and a virtual home energy assessment. Learn more about energy savings and complete an interest form.

Request to Reserve MCE Emergency Water Heater Incentive

Contractors, please fill in all required fields below. Information must be submitted for each project for which you are requesting to reserve funds. Make sure the heat pump water heater you and your client choose to install is on the TECH Clean California-approved list.

Opt Up to MCE Deep Green

Opt In to MCE Light Green

Energy supply project development

Fill out the interest form below to get started!

Complete the form below to express interest in our EV Instant Rebate or for any questions related to EVs or EV incentives. You’ll hear back from our partners at Energy Solutions within 2 business days.

Marketing, community outreach, creative, and event production

Energy efficiency, EV, and load shifting program implementation and evaluation

Non-energy related services and construction

Connect with a dedicated energy coach

Technology, finance, and human resources