How to Conserve (save) Electricity

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The more electricity people use, the more power plants we will need, and if we have to build more electricity plants it will mean using up lots more resources and possibly destroying forests or rivers - because the power plant will have to go somewhere. So it is important to try and use less power.

Saving power will end up saving the environment!

How you can save electricity.

Turn it off...  Remember to turn off your stereo when you leave the house, and the TV if you are not watching it.

Take a short shower... Don't take too long in the shower because lots of power is needed to heat the water.

Hang it out... It's much better for your clothes and the environment to hang washing on the line, rather than using the dryer.

Lights... Turn lights off when the room is not being used.

New lights... When you have to replace lights, remember to buy energy efficient light bulbs. They are more expensive than ordinary lightbulbs, but they will last heaps longer and save power too.

Special note: Electricity efficient lightbulbs are best used in rooms where the lights are left on for a while, like the kitchen or lounge. They are not recommended for the toilet or bathroom because lights in these rooms are turned off and on often - this sort of use will reduce the life and efficiency of power saving bulbs.

It's cold... If it is cold, put on a jumper and a pair of socks to warm up before wasting power on using a heater.

Shut curtains and doors... To keep the heat where it is wanted, close the curtains in the evening and close doors to rooms you don't need heated.

Keep the heat in... Lots of power is used to heat your home - don't waste the heat by letting it slip under doors or windows. Block draughty doors and windows with an old towel or make a door snake (like in the picture) - it could be a good project for sewing class.

You can make a difference!