Explained: Five Effective And Sustainable Ways To Reduce Energy Consumption This Summer

The temperatures across the country have started rising, resulting in an increase in energy consumption across the country. Hence, as the mercury rises, so will your electricity bills. Did you know with every 2-degree increase in temperature; energy consumption goes up to 100-200 MW?

This increased demand for energy can have negative effects not just on your wallets but also on the environment. This will result in increased carbon emissions and depletion of natural resources jeopardizing our future, we as consumers become more aware of the environment around us, it is time that we take some steps to ensure minimum impact on our planet.

Here are some basic steps you can take to reduce your energy consumption at home:

Upgrade to energy-efficient appliances

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Upgrading to energy-efficient appliances is an excellent way to reduce your household's energy consumption and lower your energy bills. With advancements in technology, newer appliances are designed to perform the same tasks using less energy than their older counterparts do. This means that by replacing your old, inefficient appliances with newer, energy-efficient models, you can significantly reduce your household's energy consumption.

When selecting energy-efficient appliances, look for the Energy Star label, which indicates that the appliance meets energy efficiency standards set by the Indian Environmental Protection Act (EPA). Appliances with this label use up to 50% less energy than non-certified models, making them an ideal choice for homeowners looking to save money on their electricity bills. Energy-efficient appliances are available for all types of appliances, including air coolers, BLDC fans, refrigerators, washing machines, etc. Although they may cost more upfront than older models, the long-term savings on your energy bills can make up for the initial investment.

Unplug electronics when not in use

Unplugging electronics when not in use is a simple yet effective way to reduce your energy consumption and save money on your electricity bills. Even when electronic devices are turned off, they continue to consume energy if they are plugged in, a phenomenon known as "phantom" or "vampire" energy.

Unplugging electronic devices when not in use can be a challenge, especially when you have multiple devices in your home. One way to make this process more manageable is to use power strips. Power strips allow you to turn off multiple devices at once, eliminating the need to unplug each device individually.

Use LED lighting and BLDC fans

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Using LED lights are an excellent way to reduce your household's energy consumption and lower your electricity bills. LED lights use up to 75% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs, and they can last up to 25 times longer. This means that by replacing your traditional light bulbs with LED lights, you can significantly reduce your household's energy consumption and save money on your electricity bills.

Further, the use of BLDC (Brushless Direct Current) fans can significantly reduce energy consumption. Compared to traditional AC (alternating current) fans, BLDC fans consume up to 65% less power, making them highly energy-efficient. Their advanced control system allows for precise speed control, resulting in optimal airflow and reduced power consumption.

Integration of smart devices

Integration of smart devices can significantly reduce energy consumption in homes. Smart devices are equipped with sensors, advanced algorithms, and connectivity features that enable them to optimize energy consumption by automatically adjusting settings based on occupancy, usage patterns, and environmental conditions. Additionally, smart devices can be controlled remotely, allowing users to monitor and adjust settings from anywhere, further reducing energy waste.

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Install power saving electrical wires

Eco-friendly wires are designed with a special construction to ensure lower energy loss, thereby reducing energy consumption as compared to inferior wires. These wires also have a specially formulated insulation that contains much lower degrees of toxic substances and hence ensure safety. The special insulation layer also has a much higher heat resistance that results in a wire that has a larger operational life, thereby eliminating repeated repairs and expensive replacements. These eco-friendly ¡°Green¡± wires ensure safety and reduce the likelihood of electrical accidents, they reduce energy loss, last longer and contribute towards a more sustainable future.

As more people adopt these practices, we can collectively reduce our energy consumption and contribute to a more sustainable future for all. So, let's work together to reduce energy consumption this summer and beyond, and make a positive impact on our planet!

About the author: Bharat Jaisinghani is the Executive Director of Polycab India. All views/opinions expressed in the article are of the author.