Estimated read time: 2-3 minutes
- Utah has been ranked the fifth most energy-efficient state, according to a WalletHub report.
- Energy-saving measures, like using cold water for laundry, can reduce the average $2,000 annual utility costs by 25%, as per Energysavers.gov.
- Simpler solutions, such as addressing drafts in homes, can be more cost-effective than expensive projects.
SALT LAKE CITY — Most people don't want to waste their money, but, according to experts, many people are doing just that by paying too much for their energy bills. According to Energysavers.gov, the average American family spends $2,000 on utility bills annually, which could be reduced by 25% using its recommendations.
A CNET survey found that 93% of Americans are concerned with inflation, with 37% emphasizing extreme concern. Costs of gas (54%) and utilities (41%) were among the Top 5 payments that consumers were shocked by price-wise when looking at monthly bills.
Around 40% of the average electric bill is allocated for heating and cooling, with household appliances like the oven, washer and dryer not far behind.
Where you live can also significantly affect costs, according to a recent WalletHub report.
Top 5 most energy-efficient states:
- Washington
- California
- New York
- Vermont
- Utah
Top 5 least energy-efficient states:
- South Carolina
- Alabama
- West Virginia
- Mississippi
- Wyoming
Anything from washing clothes in cold water to not running the dishwasher when it's only half full can save money.
"Many people focus on expensive projects that save very little energy. ... Sometimes a simpler solution, like adding a door in your drafty hallway area, is cheaper and more effective," Arthur van Benthem, associate professor of business economics and public policy at The Wharton School, told WalletHub.
When it comes to saving energy on the road, a Pew Research study found that only 30% of Americans would seriously or somewhat consider replacing their gas-powered vehicle with an electric one, even though the majority believe they are better for the environment.
In terms of cost management, "Most Americans say EVs require a bigger up-front investment to buy than gas-powered vehicles (72%)," but "Americans are split in their perceptions of the cost of charging or fueling these vehicles. Some 36% say EVs cost less to charge than gas-powered vehicles do to fuel, while 28% say EVs cost more and 32% think the costs are about the same."
The latest electric vehicle registration data from the U.S. Department of Energy showed that around 40,000 vehicles were registered in Utah in 2023.
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Emma Pitts
