Zahra Ennis • April 5, 2020 • 4 minute read

The novel coronavirus known as COVID-19 has changed so much in our daily lives in Jamaica, most noticeably our daily movements. In an effort to “flatten the curve” the Government of Jamaica has instructed its citizens to restrict their movement more and more over the course of the last few weeks aka “#TanAYuhYaad”. Many of us are working from home, schooling from home and doing all that we can to reduce our interaction with others and hopefully slow the spread of this deadly virus. 

There is no doubt that between the presence of children at home all day to the increased use of streaming platforms such as Netflix, our home energy usage has definitely increased and the JPS bills will increase to match. Here are a few tips to minimize your home energy usage as much as possible right now.

Turn off the lights

As obvious as it may seem, turning off lights that are not being used is a big way to save energy. Turning off lights when everyone is sleeping, reminding each other to keep the bathroom light off when not in use; simple but efficient ways to minimize use. This also covers using less electrical light in the first place. Consider moving your workstation to an area with lots of natural sunlight, and keeping windows and doors open to let in as much light as possible during the day. This may even be a good time to try out those scented candles, and set a cozy mood with the family.

Energy saving bulbs

Try picking up a few LED Bulbs when you do your grocery shopping. They are available in most supermarkets and according to the U.S. Department of Energy, quality LED light bulbs use 75 percent less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs do, and they last 25 times longer.

Give the Dryer a break

If you use an electric dryer for your clothing, try to give it a break once in a while. Being home all day means that you can take advantage of the Sun and its heat, and get crisp dry clothes by hanging them outside to dry instead of using the dryer.

Use Powerstrips

The great thing about powerstrips is that they allow you to quickly unplug multiple devices at once. All devices pull energy once they are plugged in, whether or not they are in use. Unplugging them when not in use can save a lot.

Use the Microwave or Toaster instead

As Jamaicans, we’re big on cooking. However, you could be saving a pretty penny by giving the stove and oven a break. Try using the microwave and toaster if you have them instead. YOu would be surprised at the things that can be cooked in a small toaster oven.

We at Saddle Energy Ltd. hope these tips will help you to keep your JPS bill as low as possible while we stay at home together.