Dody, solar is still pretty expensive but we found solar tubes that were affordable and make a world of difference in our home.  When we relocated and purchased (a much smaller home), we opted to have solar tubes installed in the main and 1/2 baths, hallway and utility room.  Almost never have to turn those lights on - ever!  Also, on a moonlit night they aren't necessary should you waken and need a drink of water, etc.

CFL bulbs are wonderful.  We've been using them for years and considering you never have to replace, the initial cost is nothing!  We also opted not to have a/c and found we can survive by following the easy steps outlined (even though this was a summer with unusually high temperatures for this area).  I grew up in New England so we did without a/c but lived in the Southeastern US and mid-Atlantic coast.  We always had a/c.  One of the reasons when we retired we decided on Oregon.  There are not the extremes in weather we experienced elsewhere in the US.

Also, there is a program in Oregon that costs very little.  Pacific Power buys alternative energy from wind, solar and biomass equal to your monthly usage up to 1000 kw for a mere $8.00 per month.  We never use that much power in a month so our additional cost only runs $4.00.  They can't guarantee that you will receive the alternative energy only that an amount equal to your monthly usage will be added to the power grid from the alternative energy sources.  I'm looking forward to hearing that other States and Municipalities are doing more of the same. 

We've recently transitioned to Vegan so save a lot on food.  Mostly eat organic, shop for fresh fruit and veggies at a local farm and cook from scratch.  Almost never have to use the oven/broiler but do use crock pot and electric skillet in addition to the stove top.  (An added benefit is my cholesterol has dropped from 240 to 170.  My husband's has dropped to 180.)

Thanks for keeping us abreast of all the things we can do to make a difference. 

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Sam,   It's great to see you here!  A terrific forum with lots of wonderful, easy hints for saving resources and money! 

Yes, I'm very pleased with the cholesterol levels.  Of course, I was told my career probably affected - somewhat - the higher levels.  I've never had a weight problem and usually ate correctly, but do admit to cheating on good food while juggling family, career and home.  The doctor did tell me that most people who become Vegan see a fall of 30 points on average.  See, already saving money on medication (less for big pharmaceuticals ).

Dody, I'm so sorry I completely forgot about the 12 pt.  request.  Will try to remember.  Thank you, Dody, for this group! 

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Courtesy of Noetic O, posted in the 'Join the Hunt" thread - thank you Noetic O!!

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What a wonderful cholesterol story, Denise. I hear oat bran helps quite a bit. 
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Oats, bran or no, are great for reducing cholesterol...and not very expensive (the best is the least processed, "classic style" oats that need some cooking, ie rolled oats (and if you can afford it, replacing margerine and butter with Olive oil is great too).

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12. Don't leave the monitor on even if the computer will be working on something all night.
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  Many computers have a "power saver" feature you can adjust in the control panel. It can be set to use screen savers or turn off the monitor after a period and even turn off the hard drives, put the computer to sleep, or power it down, depending on the settings you choose.

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Mike - I found my "power down" switch, or button!  I feel like a kid with a new discovery - lol!  Thanks for the tip.

Dody, unplugging things when they're not in use really will save on the electricity.  I unplug my coffee pot, microwave (don't need the clock on this since there's one on the stove), can opener, stereo, TV and DVD player, lamps and blow dryer.  My bill this winter is running an average of $90.00 less each month.  Of course, having thermal drapes, weather stripping and a hot water heater "blanket" has a lot to do with it too.  Plus, I keep the thermostat at 55 unless the temperature outdoors drops lower than 35 degrees, and then I turn the thermostat up to 60.

$90.00 a month is a big chunk of change - definitely worth having to wear socks and a sweater around the house, lol!

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