🌞 Stay Cool and Save Energy This Summer! 🌞
Summer is the season of sunshine, outdoor fun, and—let’s be honest—high energy bills. With the 4th of July right around the corner, many of us are planning cookouts, backyard gatherings, and time with loved ones. But with energy prices at a 12-year high and temperatures climbing, our homes work overtime to keep us cool, especially through air conditioning.
The good news? With some smart planning, timely upgrades, and tools like URate—our new self-service pricing platform that shows you real-time rates from 39+ suppliers—you can celebrate in style while keeping your energy usage and costs in check. Whether it’s tuning up your HVAC system, choosing ENERGY STAR® appliances, or taking advantage of new energy initiatives, there are plenty of ways to stay cool and sustainable.
In this guide, we’ll explore how to maintain and upgrade your HVAC, optimize your home’s cooling strategies, benefit from cutting-edge microgrids, and save with ENERGY STAR® appliances. We’ll also share fresh ideas for your outdoor patio and what’s new in the Con Edison territory this summer. Let’s dive in!
🎉 Meet URate: The Easiest Way to Shop Energy Rates—Anytime, Anywhere!
We know energy prices are at a 12-year high—and no one wants to overpay. That’s why we’re thrilled to introduce URate, our brand-new self-service pricing tool that puts you in the driver’s seat.
With just a few clicks, URate lets you see live rates from 39+ trusted energy suppliers—in seconds! Whether you're looking for price stability, a green energy option, or just the best deal available, you’ll get a clear, side-by-side comparison of your options in real time.
✨ No phone calls. No waiting. No guesswork.
URate gives you the power to choose the right plan for your home or business—fast, smart, and on your own terms. It’s like having your own personal energy dashboard, ready whenever you are.
Try URate today and take the mystery out of energy shopping. See what’s out there—compare, click, and start saving!
🌬️ HVAC Maintenance & Upgrades: Keeping Your Cool Efficiently
Your HVAC system is the hero of the summer—working hard to keep your home cool and comfortable. But just like any hardworking hero, it needs a little TLC to perform at its best. Summer heat puts a heavy load on your AC unit, but regular servicing can reduce that strain, improve efficiency, and prevent unexpected breakdowns.
Why Service Your HVAC Now?
Getting your AC serviced before peak summer months can reduce energy consumption significantly. When your system runs smoothly, it uses less power to cool your home, lowering your utility bill and extending the life of your equipment.
Rebates Available:
Good news for Con Edison customers: the utility company offers summer tune-up rebates to encourage homeowners to get their HVAC systems serviced. These rebates help offset maintenance costs while boosting system efficiency.
Key Maintenance Tips:
✅ Change or clean filters monthly—dirty filters block airflow and make your AC work harder.
✅ Inspect ducts for leaks—sealing leaks prevents cooled air from escaping.
✅ Clear debris around outdoor units—keep plants and debris at least two feet away for optimal airflow.
✅ Check refrigerant levels—low refrigerant means your system isn’t cooling effectively.
✅ Schedule professional tune-ups—HVAC pros use specialized tools to test and optimize your system’s performance.
When to Consider an Upgrade:
If your system is over 10 years old, consider upgrading to a high-efficiency model. Newer units use less energy, cool faster, and often qualify for utility rebates, including those through Con Edison.
🏠Keep Your House Cool: Simple Tricks for Hot Days
A hot summer day doesn’t have to mean sky-high bills. With a few simple strategies, you can beat the heat while giving your AC a well-deserved break:
âś… Fan Direction Matters!
Ceiling fans should rotate counterclockwise in summer to create a wind-chill effect that cools your skin. This makes you feel up to 4°F cooler, allowing you to raise the thermostat and save energy. Don’t forget to turn fans off when you leave the room—fans cool people, not spaces!
âś… Use Blackout Curtains
Blackout curtains can block up to 90% of sunlight and heat, keeping your rooms much cooler. Close them during the hottest parts of the day, especially for south- and west-facing windows. In the evenings, open them back up to let in cooler night air.
âś… Cook & Grill Outside
Skip the indoor stove or oven during peak heat hours (2-6 PM). Instead, fire up the grill outside or prepare fresh, no-cook meals. Not only does this keep your kitchen cooler, but it also creates a great excuse to enjoy the outdoors.
âś… Stay in Shaded Rooms
When it’s blazing outside, retreat to the coolest, shadiest parts of your home—typically the north side or lower floors. Draw curtains or blinds to keep these rooms extra comfortable.
âś… Unplug Heat-Producing Devices
Appliances like toasters, coffee makers, and game consoles generate heat even when not in use. Unplug them or use a smart power strip to eliminate phantom loads and keep your home cooler.
âś… Open Up at Night
Nighttime is your friend! Open windows in the evening once the air outside is cooler than inside. This flushes out warm air and invites in refreshing breezes. In the morning, close them to trap in the coolness for the day.
âś… Switch to LED Bulbs
LEDs emit far less heat compared to incandescent or halogen bulbs. Replacing your old bulbs helps keep rooms cooler and saves energy—plus, LEDs last much longer!
âś… Add Houseplants
Indoor plants not only clean your air, but they can also help regulate indoor temperature by releasing moisture (transpiration). Try low-water summer-friendly options like snake plants or aloe vera to boost your home’s natural cooling.
âś… Seal Up Leaks
Small cracks around windows and doors let in hot air. Sealing them with weatherstripping or caulk can dramatically reduce heat gain. It’s a simple weekend project with a big payoff!
âś… Use a Dehumidifier
High humidity can make your home feel hotter than it is. A dehumidifier removes excess moisture from the air, letting you feel cooler without cranking up the AC.
âś… Rotate Chores & Activities
Do your laundry, ironing, or other heat-producing chores in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are lower. This helps prevent adding extra heat to your home when you’re trying to stay cool.
These small tweaks add up to real comfort and real savings—no sweat!
⚡ Microgrids: Powering Up the Neighborhood
Have you heard about microgrids? These community-based energy systems are the future of resilient, reliable power—and they’re making waves right here in New York! Microgrids are small, localized energy networks that can operate independently or alongside the main power grid. They’re particularly valuable for ensuring energy security and resilience during power outages or natural disasters.
Here’s the scoop:
🔹 Con Edison is investing $2.35 billion to boost grid reliability and build out advanced infrastructure, including community microgrids.
🔹 Microgrids can operate independently from the main grid during emergencies, providing backup power and reducing outages.
🔹 They’re great for integrating renewable energy sources like solar and battery storage, creating cleaner and more local power.
Key Components:
A typical microgrid includes:
Renewable energy sources (like solar panels or wind turbines)
Energy storage systems (such as batteries)
Advanced control systems to balance and manage energy use efficiently
Benefits for Homes & Businesses:
Lower electricity costs by using locally generated, renewable energy
Reduce peak energy demand and strain on the main grid
Provide backup power during grid failures, supporting critical systems
Reduce reliance on fossil fuels and lower greenhouse gas emissions
Applications & Community Use:
Communities, campuses, and even large residential areas are increasingly adopting microgrids to achieve local energy independence
Energy providers and cities are investing in pilot programs to integrate microgrids with renewable resources and support grid stability
A Path to a Cleaner Future:
Microgrids are an essential step in building a cleaner, more resilient energy future—ensuring reliable power and supporting broader sustainability goals.
For neighborhoods and communities, microgrids mean better reliability, lower carbon emissions, and a stronger, more sustainable energy future. That’s a win-win!
🌟 ENERGY STAR Appliances: Small Changes, Big Wins
Looking to upgrade appliances? ENERGY STAR® certified models are the way to go. Not only do they save energy, but they also may qualify for New York rebates—a double dose of savings!
Why Choose ENERGY STAR?
✅ Up to 25% more efficient than standard models—cutting your energy use and monthly bill.
âś… Rebates are waiting! Check with your supplier or visit the Con Edison website for rebates on appliances like refrigerators, dishwashers, washers/dryers, and HVAC equipment.
✅ Less energy, more comfort. ENERGY STAR appliances perform better while using less—no compromise on comfort or convenience!
So, the next time you’re ready for an upgrade, choose the star that saves: ENERGY STAR!
🏖️ Patio Season: Passive Cooling, Solar Power & Eco-Friendly Outdoor Ideas
Summer nights are made for relaxing on the patio, and you can do it in style—without running up your electricity bill or harming the planet! Here’s how to enjoy the season sustainably and save energy:
• Embrace passive cooling. Use shade sails, pergolas, umbrellas, or natural shade from trees to block the sun’s heat during the day. This reduces the need for air conditioning inside your home, saving energy and lowering your bills. In the evening, open windows and doors to let cool breezes flow freely, naturally lowering indoor temperatures.
• Switch to solar. Solar-powered string lights and garden lights add a festive glow without using any grid electricity. These lights store up sunshine during the day and brighten your evenings sustainably, helping you reduce your carbon footprint while keeping your outdoor space cozy.
• Natural breezes. Cross-ventilation by opening windows and doors helps cool your home without using fans or air conditioning.
• Try organic mulch. Applying mulch around your plants retains soil moisture, reducing the need for frequent watering. This not only saves water but also helps plants stay healthy and vibrant throughout the summer heat.
• Grow your own fruits & vegetables. Cultivating a small garden or container plants gives you fresh, local produce and reduces the energy footprint linked to transporting food from distant farms.
• Utilize xeriscaping. Opt for drought-tolerant plants to save water and reduce your irrigation needs. This energy-smart landscaping helps maintain a beautiful yard with minimal environmental impact.
• Plant a native garden. Native plants thrive naturally in your area’s climate, needing less water and fertilizer. Plus, they support local wildlife and biodiversity.
• Save water with a smart irrigation system. Automated systems adjust watering based on weather data and soil moisture, minimizing water waste and reducing the energy required for water treatment and pumping.
• Consider rainwater harvesting. Collect rainwater to irrigate your garden, lowering your reliance on municipal water supplies and cutting down on the energy used in water processing.
• Start a compost pile. Composting kitchen scraps and yard waste enriches your soil naturally, reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers, which require a lot of energy to produce.
• Choose eco-friendly lawn care tools. Electric or manual tools cut emissions compared to gas-powered ones and often operate more quietly, creating a more pleasant environment.
• Upgrade your outdoor lighting to LED. LEDs use up to 80% less energy than traditional bulbs and last much longer, helping you reduce energy consumption and maintenance.
• Install solar panels. If possible, add solar panels to power your outdoor lighting, fans, or even an electric grill. Solar energy offsets your electricity use and decreases your overall environmental impact.
• Buy sustainable outdoor furniture. Look for pieces made from recycled materials or sustainably sourced wood that can withstand weather while reducing environmental harm.
• Build an eco-friendly deck. Use sustainable wood alternatives or composite materials that last longer, require less maintenance, and minimize deforestation.
• Look into a natural swimming pool. These chemical-free pools use plants and biological filters to keep water clean and clear. They reduce the need for energy-intensive water treatment and blend beautifully into your natural surroundings.
By combining these eco-friendly practices with energy-smart choices, you create a patio that’s cool, cozy, and cost-efficient—perfect for relaxing while keeping your carbon footprint low. Plus, many of these ideas contribute to your home’s overall energy efficiency, helping you save money and support a greener future! 🌞🌿
📰 What’s New in Con Edison Territory?
Staying informed about your local energy landscape can help you plan smarter and save more. Here’s what’s buzzing:
• Major investments for a reliable future. Con Edison is energizing new underground transmission lines in Brooklyn and Staten Island this month, totaling a $505 million investment. These state-of-the-art lines are part of the Reliable Clean City program, aimed at strengthening the grid and ensuring clean, reliable power. Each 138-kilovolt line can carry up to 300 megawatts—enough to power 300,000 mid-sized window AC units or 400,000 refrigerators!
• Community-focused progress. The mile-long Brooklyn cable connects Gowanus and Greenwood substations, while the nine-mile Staten Island line links Goethals and Fox Hills. Local leaders and community organizations like UPROSE have praised Con Edison for their community engagement, noting how the utility minimized construction inconveniences and incorporated local input.
• Supporting clean energy goals. These new lines don’t just boost reliability—they also pave the way for renewable energy to flow smoothly into homes and businesses, supporting New York State’s climate goals.
• More on the horizon. Con Edison isn’t stopping there! Work has already started on another project in western Queens to connect two substations with a new $125 million line, set to be in service by summer 2026.
• Delivery rate increases. While Con Edison has announced upcoming delivery rate increases, these investments are crucial for maintaining the nation’s most reliable electric service—currently nine times more reliable than typical service in New York State. Staying on top of your usage and exploring energy-saving strategies can help keep your bill in check as these improvements roll out.
• Summer usage trends. Historical data shows residential energy use spikes during hot summer days. Be mindful of peak hours (2–6 PM) and consider energy-efficient upgrades to manage costs.
• New renewable energy projects. Beyond these transmission updates, Con Edison continues expanding renewable energy resources, bringing cleaner power to New York and supporting ambitious climate goals.
By staying plugged in to local energy news, you can make informed decisions that keep your costs in check and support a greener, more reliable grid. 🌱
🌅 Wrapping Up Your Summer Efficiency Plan
As the sun sets on another warm day, remember: the little changes you make today can have a big impact on your comfort, your wallet, and the planet. From microgrid investments and smart cooling strategies to solar-lit patios and new ENERGY STAR appliances, every step you take adds up.
So go ahead, enjoy the best of summer—knowing you’re staying cool, saving energy, and investing in a brighter future for your home and community.
Stay cool, stay efficient, and enjoy the season! 🌿
