Quick tips to reduce your energy usage:

• Set your thermostat

  Air-conditioning is one of the most energy intensive processes in the home. Setting your system to around 20 degrees in winter and 25 degrees in summer offers the best balance of comfort and energy efficiency.
  
  By simply changing the temperature settings by a few degrees, you can make a big difference to energy costs. Depending on the size of your unit, a one-degree change can save up to 10 per cent on costs.

• Turn off appliances at the wall

  Standby power can account for more than three per cent of your power bill, so it pays to turn appliances and other devices off at the wall when you're not using them. If you have a second fridge that you only use occasionally, consider turning it off when it’s not in use – a fridge makes up around 13 per cent of the average energy bill.

• Choose efficient appliances

  Energy Rating labels are found on appliances like televisions, computers, dishwashers, washing machines, fridges, freezers and dryers. They help you to compare different models based on how much energy the appliance will consume in a year – and display a star rating for efficiency.
  
  When possible, consider the energy efficiency rating in addition to cost when purchasing a new appliance. More energy-efficient appliances will help you use less power and save money over the life of the appliance.
  
  Make sure your appliances are positioned and installed correctly to perform at their best. For example, putting the fridge next to the oven will force the fridge’s cooling system to work harder. Also, ensure your appliances are well-maintained so they continue working efficiently.
  
  Visit the Australian Government’s energy rating website for more information.

• Choose energy-efficient lighting

  We are helping communities to save money by progressively upgrading old streetlights across our network to LED lights. By doing the same thing in your home, you can save around 16 per cent on your annual lighting costs.
  
  LED and compact fluorescent lights are efficient, provide good light quality and offer instant start up-times. Through the Victorian Energy Upgrades scheme, an accredited installer will upgrade the lighting in your home for free.

• Close your curtains

  In winter, close your blinds in the evening so warmth in your home doesn’t escape. In summer, keep rooms shaded from the sun and heat by closing your blinds.
  
  Investing in quality curtains and blinds can also make a difference to your home’s ability to maintain temperature. Choose fabrics that insulate well, or curtains with thermal lining.

• Changing simple habits can save energy

  Simple actions like turning off lights when you leave a room, air drying your washing or having shorter showers can help to reduce electricity consumption.