On 1 July 2012, South Africans will see the next tariff increase, with domestic consumers who get their power from local supply authorities paying an average 16% more. With such an increase, it becomes critical to manage your consumption. Powertime can help you understand your power usage and save money!
South Africa is currently facing a difficult energy situation where energy supply is barely enough to cope with energy demand from a growing population. Even though Eskom is currently building power stations, these new stations will not be operational before a few years.
In addition, South Africans have seen electricity tariffs increased significantly since 2010, increasing by 25% year on year in 2010 and 2011.
Try these simple tips to manage your energy consumption efficiently…
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The Powertime Iphone App makes it easier for you to control your energy expenditure Monitor your geyser. This is the highest impact/lowest cost measure. Reduce the temperature to 55°C, install an insulation blanket, install a timer and switch it off when you leave on holidays. Consider solar water heaters, if possible.
- Seal and insulate your home properly. Almost 30% of your winter electricity bill is used for heating if you use electric heaters. Maintain the temperature: 1°C less at home equals 7% less consumption. Consider energy efficient windows – you can save up to 10% of your heating demand.
- Consider installing a Heat Pump to heat and cool your home (save up to 70% on your heating and cooling costs).
- Replace incandescent light bulbs with CFL or LED varieties.
- Purchase ENERGY STAR appliances and electronics.
- Run full loads in the washing machine and dishwasher.
- Use the energy saving settings on your dishwasher and washing machine.
- Consider air-drying your clothes, tumble dryers are very energy intensive appliances.
- Don’t keep your refrigerator and freezer too cold and defrost your fridge regularly. Avoid reaching a 3mm frost layer.
- Plug your computer peripherals into a power strip to power everything down when not in use.
For more information on the Powertime App and how it can help you control your energy use, visit www.powertimestore.co.za