According to BC Hydro, British Columbia is high on the list in North America in the use of CFL bulbs. 85% have installed the energy-efficient light bulbs which uses 75% less electricity than the regular bulbs.

BC Hydro is offering rebates from now till the end of the year and it's a great time to take advantage of it. They are offering $50 off washers and refrigerators and $25 off of freezers. All appliances must be Energy Star compliant. Retailers are doing their part to support BC Hydro PowerSmart by taking an additional 10% off. In some months, you can save both the PST and GST.

If you are buying a new laundry set, consider a front load washer which uses 35% less energy and 30-50% less water then a top-load. Also, consider using cold water to do your wash. Bypass the dryer by using a clothesline in the hotter months and use racks (get chrome instead of wood) in the laundry room in the colder months. If you are using a clothesline, consider stringing it over a flower garden to get the flowery smell in your clothes.

When you are doing dishes in the dishwasher, run the kitchen tap till the water is hot then turn on the dishwasher. This helps the dishwasher by not needing it to heat the water as much.

Try unplugging electronics or turning off the power bar when they are not in use. Even when they are off and plugged in, they use electricity - phantom electricity.

The quick tips listed above should make a difference in your next electricity bill.

Source: Article by Maggie Calloway in the column "Smart Choices for our Future"