How to save money by reducing your energy consumption

It makes both environmental and financial sense to reduce your energy consumption and King's Sustainability have put some tips together to help you save money in eco-friendly ways.

• Turn off computers, monitors, lights and other appliances at the plug when they’re not in use. According to the Guardian, this could save you up to 16% on energy.
• Switch to energy-efficient light bulbs and appliances and request a smart meter from your energy supplier.
• Turn down the brightness on your devices as going from 100% to 70% brightness can save 20% of your monitor's energy according to Harvard.
• Dress both yourself and your accommodation for the temperature. Try to insulate your house or room better and put on a jumper before reaching for the thermostat. Turning down the temperature just 1 degree can make a big difference to your energy consumption.
• Set your hot water temperature and timer smartly. Insulating a hot water tank can save over 500kg of carbon dioxide per year resulting in saving more than £100 on energy bills. 
• Run dishwashers and washing machines only when they’re full and hang clothes to dry rather than using a machine as this uses a lot of energy.
• Are you on campus? Report any problems like a leaking tap to Estates & Facilities at ask@kcl.ac.uk.
• You can also check out quick tips from the Energy Saving Trust on how to save.