TVA Encourages Consumers To Use Energy Wisely as Temperatures Drop

Dec. 10, 2009

As temperatures continue to drop over the next several months, TVA is encouraging consumers to take steps that could help reduce their energy bills all winter long.

“Using power more efficiently is important to help meet future energy needs and it also helps keep electric rates affordable across the Tennessee Valley,” said TVA Executive Vice President for Customer Resources Ken Breeden. “For every degree you lower your thermostat, you can reduce your heating cost 2 to 3 percent.”

Consumers can find out how to save money in their own homes by completing a free online home energy evaluation available at www.energyright.com.

Upon completion of the home energy evaluation, consumers will receive an energy conservation kit filled with items to help save energy and reduce their electric bill. Consumers also will receive a customized energy report from TVA to help them understand where their home is wasting energy - and how they can fix expensive leaks.

 Other energy-saving tips include:

• Keep curtains open on the south side of the house and closed on the north side during the day
• Make sure the fireplace damper is closed so warm air does not escape up the chimney
• Air-dry dishes instead of using the dishwasher’s heat drying option.

Now is also a good time to take low-cost measures such as caulking and weather stripping around windows and doors to stop air leaks and adding insulation to the attic, crawl space and any accessible exterior walls.

When shopping for new appliances, consumers should look for the Energy Star label. They should also install an Energy Star programmable thermostat and keep it at 68 degrees.

“It only takes a few minutes to make changes that can save energy and money all year long,” Breeden said.

You can find more energy saving tips and tools on TVA’s Energy Right Program Web site, www.energyright.com.

TVA is the nation’s largest public power provider and is completely self-financing. TVA provides power to large industries and 158 power distributors that serve approximately 9 million consumers in seven southeastern states. TVA also creates economic development opportunities and manages the Tennessee River and its tributaries to provide multiple benefits, including flood damage reduction, navigation, water quality and recreation.

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