Energy conservation – or what we commonly call energy waste reduction or energy efficiency – is a key component of our clean energy plan. It’s easy to wonder what’s the catch. How can we want to sell less of what we make? But it’s a win-win-win for customers’ bank accounts, our planet’s future and our commitment to power the lives of Michiganders, just like we have for more than 135 years. So yes, when customers use less electricity (and natural gas, too!) everyone benefits.

Like products sold by most companies, electricity must be created or purchased for customers to use. Unlike those other industries, it is provided on demand and must meet the shifting needs of our customers during the most extreme weather and under any circumstances.

When we can ensure electric consumption is within a predictable range all year, we can scale with renewables to meet Michigan’s needs, plus a buffer, without overbuilding for just a few days a year. In addition, by avoiding the need to maintain ‘peaker’ sources and stock them with fuel we pass those savings along to customers.

While such a big change can seem impossible, we’re in good shape today and well into the future. By supplementing with natural gas generation while we scale, adding about 8,000 MW of solar, battery backups AND providing programs for customers to become a force of change for their own home or business with options to fit any need, budget or season.

Here are five of 100 ways you can save at no cost and in no time at all:

1. Adjust your thermostat when you’re not home – with a smart thermostat you can even set it to back on your way home – and close vents in rooms you’re not using at the moment.
   
   
2. Don’t open the oven! You can lose up to 75 degrees every time you crack the door, using more energy to get it back to temp.
   
   
3. Have an old fridge or freezer hanging around for just a few overflow items? Recycle it through the Appliance Recycling Program and GET $50 from us.
   
   
4. Use blinds and curtains to hold in or block out heat. In cooler weather, let the sunshine in from the south and cover windows facing the north. On warmer days, reverse the order.
   
   
5. Don’t over fill your clothes dryer and clean your lint filter after each use – more efficient and most importantly, safe!