Dear Red Monkey,
With electricity prices on the rise yet again, I’m struggling to keep up. What can I do to reduce my energy usage and keep costs down?
Sincerely, Power Struggles
Dear Power Struggles,
You’re not alone in feeling the pinch! Electricity costs in South Africa have soared over the past 15 years, with yearly increases hitting all of us where it hurts. Next year is set to bring even more increases, so it’s smart to start thinking about how we can cut down on our energy usage.
Let’s tackle the big one first: the geyser. Geysers can account for a whopping 40-60% of your energy bill. Consider investing in a timer for your geyser to control when it heats up, such as during off-peak hours or only when you need it. Alternatively, you might look at a geyser blanket, which helps keep the water hot for longer, saving energy in the process.
For a long-term solution, solar energy is definitely an option, albeit an expensive one to set up. Installation costs can be high, but solar can save significantly on energy bills over time. If solar installation isn’t an option, you could also explore gas solutions for your kitchen or even a gas-powered geyser, which more people are turning to as a practical and cost-effective option.
Finally, try to get in the habit of switching off lights and appliances when not in use, unplugging devices, and keeping an eye on high-consumption appliances. It might seem small, but each step counts, and it all adds up to meaningful savings.
Hang in there, Power Struggles! With a few changes, you can definitely ease the load on your wallet.
Warmly, Red Monkey
