Smart Energy: Where Power Is Going

12/09/2025

When you flip a light switch, cozy up next to a space heater or turn on your electric stove to prepare dinner, electricity flows instantly. But behind that simple action is a modern engineering marvel, the power grid, which consists of millions of miles of power lines.

The power grid is a vast network that generates, moves and manages electricity so it’s available whenever you need it. While most of us don’t think about it day to day, understanding a few basics can help you appreciate just how important this invisible system really is to daily life.

Read more on the Energy Blog here: https://bit.ly/3XG5EL7

09/10/2025

Electricity rates are rising in many parts of the United States (and may be for the foreseeable future), which is putting pressure on already constrained household budgets.

According to a recent nationwide survey, about one-third of American consumers have already struggled to pay their electric bills in the past year. And this is likely to rise in the years ahead.

If you’re looking for ways to cut costs and take control of your home energy usage, you’re not alone. The good news is that there are simple steps you can take to lower your bills.

Read more on the Energy Blog here: https://bit.ly/4n1gjuW

09/10/2025

Time is running out for Americans to get a federally funded discount on energy upgrades that can lower their utility bills and make their homes healthier and more comfortable.

The GOP tax and spending law passed in July swiftly phases out tax credits that help households afford heat pumps and other energy-saving electric appliances. The credits were supposed to last about a decade; now they sunset December 31.

Learn more on Canary Media here: https://bit.ly/41JxI2G

As the GOP kills incentives, Rewiring America is offering free online tools and weekly calls to get more clean energy and efficient appliances into homes.

11/06/2024

While most Americans today back the transition to a cleaner power grid, not everyone can install solar panels on their homes. Fortunately, there are still other ways to champion renewable energy development, with community solar being a standout option.

According to the Department of Energy, community solar refers to any solar project that provides benefits to multiple customers, such as individuals, businesses, nonprofits and other groups. Participants in community solar subscribe to, or sometimes own, a portion of the energy from the solar array and receive bill credits for the electricity their share produces.

In this month’s blog, we look at three things to consider before signing up for community solar: https://bit.ly/3Ci1Fgj

10/09/2024

With the autumnal equinox – the official start of fall – now past, temperatures across the country are finally beginning to cool down following the hottest summer on record.

While the mild weather between summer’s heat and winter’s chill is here, it’s an ideal time to enhance your home’s energy efficiency, particularly with the tax credits now available.

In this blog, we look at three ways to weatherize your home before winter: https://bit.ly/3BCh0Id

10/09/2024

Using a space heater can be a good way to boost the temperature in a small, drafty room – and it could be less expensive than cranking up your central heating system.

But a space heater is economical only if you use it judiciously. That’s because, in general, electric heat is pricier than natural gas (which is the most common type of whole-home heating fuel).

If you have one chilly room, using a space heater can be an economical alternative to cranking up the heat—as long as you're smart about it.

10/09/2024

There's no question that electric vehicles are becoming more affordable every year. The cost to purchase an EV is now close to that of a gas-powered vehicle, according to The Washington Post.

But the debate over EVs versus internal combustion engine, or ICE, vehicles still rages on social media sites like Reddit, where users break down and compare the total cost of ownership of each type of vehicle over time.

Battery technology has come a long way, and EV batteries can last more than 100,000 miles these days.

09/06/2024

While there have been some signs that the electric vehicle (EV) market in the United States is cooling somewhat compared to the red-hot year in 2023, the EV industry continues to grow and evolve in exciting ways in 2024.

New models are creating a brand-new landscape for prospective consumers compared to just a few years ago, and new programs and services from power companies are helping to improve the ownership experience.

Check out our latest blog to learn more: https://bit.ly/4ebCSIg

09/06/2024

It's hard not to notice those vanity license plates like "GASLOL" on EVs while driving around. Why so braggy? Do EV drivers know something we don't?

We combed through popular social media platforms like Reddit and TikTok and found that the cost of EV charging versus gasoline is a hot debate right now.

Read more here: https://bit.ly/3ARbKA6

There's an exciting debate playing out on Reddit comparing the cost of charging an electric vehicle versus fueling a gas-powered car. Using math and expertise, we can tell you which one's cheaper.

07/10/2024

If you’re among the third of Americans who rent their homes, you might think that there’s not a lot you can do to reduce your home’s use.

While there are certain limitations for renters compared to homeowners, there are still many impactful actions you can take to become a smarter energy consumer.

In this blog, we explore five steps that renters can take to be smarter energy consumers: https://bit.ly/3XX43BW

06/24/2024

Do you rent your home and want ways to lower your monthly electric bill?

Our latest resources help you have informed conversations with your provider and landlord on how you can take control of your energy usage and become a smarter energy consumer.

Learn more here: https://bit.ly/3vjJljz

06/24/2024

Summer 2024 is here, and it could be even hotter than last summer's record-breaking temperatures.

With these dangerous levels of heat, home-cooling costs are expected to be nearly eight percent higher this summer, and the average cost of keeping an American home cool will hit a 10-year high.

You don't have to break the bank to beat the summer heat.