This month, millions of kids across the North Carolina are heading back to school. This transition can mean a lot of changes after the more laid-back days of summer. As you start up your school year routines, don’t forget to include daily energy saving in your plans!

Time of Use Rates
This voluntary program rewards members with a lower rate for using electricity during off-peak periods. Simply shifting you household activities to off-peak periods can save you energy and money. Avoid using electricity during on-peak periods, which is 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. in summer and 6 a.m. to 8 a.m. in winter, excluding holidays and weekends. As a matter of fact, 94% of the hours in a year are during off-peak times. Other ways to save include putting a timer on your water heater, using programmable thermostats, and doing laundry and running the dishwasher during off-peak periods. Click here to learn more how you can save with this special rate or sign-up.

Adjust Your Thermostat
Be sure to readjust your programmable thermostat to your family’s academic and work schedule—this will save you money. In addition, if you have a window unit and/or ceiling fans, be sure to turn them off when you’re out, it’s as easy as a flick of a switch.

Smart Power Strips
Nonessential electronics such as TVs, computer monitors and charging devices can use electricity even when on standby. Thankfully, there’s another option other than scouring the room for your off buttons—the smart power strip. These outlet hubs ensure that electricity isn’t drawn from electronics and appliances that aren’t in use.