With the price of energy these days I thought we could all use some reminders of how we can save some money AND help the environment at the same time.  So here's a few thoughts on how you can control your energy costs this winter. 

Thanks to the great folks at the Flex Your Power web-site for some low cost and good investment tips below to save energy.

1. Install a programmable thermostat. On cold days, set the thermostat to 68°F when you are home (health permitting) and turn it off when you are away. Lowering the temperature 3-5°F can save you 10-20% on your heating bill.
2. Install low-flow showerheads to conserve water and save 5-10% on water heating costs. Showers can account for up to 50% of your hot water usage.
3. Replace the 4 lights you use most often with compact fluorescent lights (CFLs) and save up to $35 a year in energy costs. 

Say, Did You Know?

• A typical California home is spending more on electricity than necessary.
• The average household could cut a third or even half of its current energy bill by switching to energy-efficient appliances, equipment and lighting, which use less energy than standard products.
• An energy-efficient compact fluorescent lamp (CFL) uses at least 66% less energy than standard incandescent bulbs for the same lighting level!  In the Sacramento area CFL lamps (bulbs) are available at a reduced rate at many retailers thanks to a program with SMUD.

Do your part to conserve and be sure to check out the Flex Your Power web-site for plenty of energy saving ideas and incentives and rebates for your home or business.

Californian's first mined gold in the foothills during the 18th century and are now today's Californian's are poised to mine the gold in the sky during the 21st century.  California is leading the way for cleaner, smarter, sustainable power with the newly created California Solar Initiative which was designed to create environmentally friendly electricity.  The California Solar Initiative will decrease the cost of environmentally friendly electricity.

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger's goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions is addressed in this ambition 10-year, $2.9 billion program was recently designed by the California Public Utilities Commission (PUC) to promote solar development.  The initiative plans to install one million solar systems or an equivalent of 3,000 megawatts of solar capacity by the year 2017.

In a recent release by the California Public Utilities Commission, the PUC stated the California Solar Initiative is the largest solar program in the nation and will encourage builders to include solar installations in new housing developments. Additionally, emphasis will be placed on testing the performance and output of the solar systems installed, as well as program funding for affordable housing installations. 

Be sure to click on the California Solar Initiative link above for the complete news release.  For more information on the PUC, please visit www.cpuc.ca.gov.