With a history of load shedding in previous years,especially in the Winter months for South Africa, one can always find ways to reduce the energy usage to reduce the load on Eskom.
As the month of May is National Energy Month,here are some electricity and fuel saving tips to use in everyday life.
Electricity saving tips:
- Take a shower instead of a bath.
- Don’t fill the kettle – only boil the water that you need.
- Keep the fridge door closed, and make sure it is properly sealed.
- Don’t cook with a small pot on a large stove plate.
- Dress for the season – warm in winter and light clothing in summer.
- Switch off all appliances when they are not in use.
- Reduce your heater or geyser temperature from hot to warm.
- Close all windows and doors when the air conditioner or heater is on.
- Use CFL energy saving bulbs at all times.
- Fit one light bulb with the correct level of brightness in a room.
- Turn the lights off when you leave a room.
- Do all ironing at the same time
Fuel saving tips:
- Lighten the load in your vehicle.
- Plan your trips and minimise short trips or walk.
- Keep a safe following distance.
- Use air conditioner only when necessary.
- Reduce idling time.
- Travel early/later to avoid known traffic peaks.
- Resolve minor and major car service issues.
- Keep your tyres inflated to the proper pressure.
- Join a lift club.
- If available use public transport.
- Use the recommended grade of motor oil for your car.
- Change gears according to your speed.
Eskom has embarked on a massive capacity expansion programme to meet South Africa’s increasing energy needs. It expects to double its capacity to 80 000 MW by 2026.
