Every time we fill our gas tanks, we’re reminded of how much a gallon of gasoline has gone up in price since the beginning of the conflict in Iran. That is, those who have gas-powered vehicles. In the Roaring Fork Valley, recent prices for a gallon of regular unleaded gas have been in the $4.40 to $4.60 range.
Statewide in Colorado, prices have jumped from just above $3.00 per gallon last fall to roughly $4.40 on average as of May 1. And it’s anyone’s guess how high they could rise if hostilities in the Middle East continue. The cost of diesel fuel is even higher, averaging roughly $5.50 per gallon nationwide recently.
What you can do to save $ on energy consumption
So, what can consumers do to save money and be less dependent on fossil fuels? That depends on how far you’re willing to go. Electric vehicles are more popular than ever and even though government rebates aren’t currently available for purchasing an EV, there are long-term savings to be achieved along with the peace of mind of being green.
The infrastructure to support EVs, while not where it could be, is much better than it was just a few years ago. This includes more charging stations and an expansion of DC fast charging ports.
If an EV feels like a step too far for you, hybrids can significantly increase your vehicle’s gas mileage without having to plan trips around how many miles you can drive per charge and where to charge along your route.
There are also well-known fuel efficiency habits, such as avoiding idling or rapid acceleration, and trying to maintain your speed as close as possible to the optimal fuel efficiency speed of 50-60 miles per hour.
Home energy efficiency improvements
Just as EVs have been a game changer for vehicles, solar paneling is a practical way to radically change your electricity usage. Over the past 15 or so years, solar power has become a mainstream option for homeowners, with the help of greater efficiency, large cost reductions, and government incentives.
Colorado offers significant solar power incentives, which include a 30% federal tax credit, a 10% state tax credit on battery storage, and exemptions for property tax and sales tax.
However, there are a few important things to keep in mind. First, not all houses are suitable for solar power. A major hindrance is excessive shade on your roof from nearby trees. Solar panels are optimal on south-facing roofs that have a slope of 15 to 40 degrees. Also, consider the age of your roof and the number of years before you expect to replace it.
Watch out for scams
In all cases, do your homework and be aware that there are scammers out there, looking to take advantage of well-meaning people who are not careful. Don’t succumb to pushy sales tactics. If you are pressured to act immediately, that could be a red flag.
Do your research before you sign any contracts. Ask questions and make sure that you understand all the terms. Get quotes from multiple installers and make sure they are licensed and certified. Ask your friends and neighbors for recommendations and read customer reviews.
Everyday home efficiency habits
Here are a few everyday tips for home energy efficiency:
• Use a programmable thermostat, which can save you substantially on your home heating bill by lowering your thermostat at night or when you are away.
• In the absence of a smart thermostat, strive to manually turn down your thermostat in parts of the house that are empty and when you are away.
• Lower your water heater temperature. These temperatures are often set unnecessarily high.
• Weatherproof your home. Use weather stripping around windows and doors to prevent air leaks and the resulting heat loss or gain.
• Add insulation to your walls and attic.
• Buy ENERGY STAR-rated appliances, including refrigerators, dryers, and air conditioners.
Here’s a great local example of a creative and far-reaching approach to energy efficiency: Aspen School District is exploring geothermal energy as an option to cut long-term costs on air conditioning. The substantial cost of retrofitting the campus HVAC system with ground-source heat pumps could be reduced through federal tax credits and a state grant. Once installed, the system could cut the school’s utility bill by 75% while reducing its heat-generated greenhouse gas emissions by more than 90%.
A smarter path forward
As energy costs rise and new technologies reshape the choices available to us, even small steps toward efficiency can make a meaningful difference. Whether it’s upgrading a home, rethinking how we drive, or simply staying alert to scams, the path forward is built on informed, intentional decisions. Today, more than ever, it can pay to be a thoughtful consumer of energy.