Customer Newsletter, March 2010

EnergyWise Tip: "Conserving (Hot) Water is EnergyWise"

As a necessary component of life, water is undeniably a precious resource. As a primarily agricultural-based state, water is especially important to the quality of life in Nebraska, and all Nebraskans have a responsibility to use it wisely.

Whether heating it for domestic use or moving it to irrigate crops or water lawns, using water takes energy. Generally, these are three places Nebraskans have an opportunity to conserve water, use energy efficiently, and save money in the process: At home, in the yard and in the field.

At Home

Many opportunities to conserve water and energy (and save money) exist in the average home in Nebraska, especially if you require warm or hot water. Any water savings is beneficial, and after a look at the following data, a pair of water- and energy-saving devices will clearly benefit the home: low-flow showerheads and a high-efficiency clothes washer.

ACTIVITY GALLONS/USE   ACTIVITY GALLONS/USE
Clothes Washing Conventional Washer 33 gallons   Automatic Dishwashing 12 gallons
Clothes Washing Front Loading 15 gallons   Preparing Food 5 gallons
Conventional Shower Head 2.5 gallons/minute   Bathing 20 gallons
Low Flow Shower Head 2.0 gallons/minute or less   Hand Dishwashing 4 gallons

Other stories you'll find inside this edition:
  • Weathering the "Perfect Storm"
  • Our nation's electric utility industry is heading into a "perfect storm". More>>>
  • Refrigerator Recycling Program is Back!
  • Chances are, that old working refrigerator or freezer in your garage or basement is running up your electric bill. More>>>
  • Short Circuits: Old Wiring Could Be Hazardous
  • Did you know that one-third of American homes were built over 50 years ago? Think about the changes in demand for electricity since that time. More>>>
  • Scholarship Applications Available
  • If you know a recent high school graduate, or a student who will graduate from high school in 2010, encourage that individual to apply for Southern's Utility Lineman Scholarship Program. The deadline is fast approaching: April 1, 2010. More>>>
  • Recipe Box
  • Bakes Pork Chops Enjoy!>>>