Strategies for keeping energy low in the summer months

As we get into summer months and the temperature rises so does your energy consumption, often leading to higher electric bills and greater environmental impact. Lucky for us, we can manage our usage with different strategies for keeping energy low in the summer months.

Here are just a few ways you can lower your energy usage while still staying cool in the summer heat.

•  Home Cooling Efficiency
•  Energy- Efficient Appliances
•  Technology
•  Renewable Energy Options

Optimizing Air Conditioning in the summer months 

First, and probably the most obvious strategy for optimizing your AC is increasing your temperature when you’re away. By doing this you can reduce your bill significantly. You can even consider installing a programable thermostat which allows you to schedule these adjustments. By doing this you can ensure that your home is cool when you’re there and reduced while you’re away.

Next, make sure you are utilizing your fans effectively. Fans are a great way to reduce your reliance on air conditioning. Fans will create that wind-chill effect that makes you cooler without even touching the thermostat. These can be portable fans and even ceiling fans.

Another strategy you can try is closing your curtains or blinds during the day. Keeping your curtains and blinds open during the day brings in direct sunlight, forcing your air conditioner to work harder.

Lastly, seal and insulate your home. Proper insulation and sealing can prevent cool air from escaping from windows, doors, and gaps in the walls and floors. By maintaining a well-insulated home you can keep your indoor temperature consistent and prevent air leaks.

Benefits of Energy-Efficient Appliances

Energy-efficient appliances can offer many benefits outside of reducing your electricity bill. Energy efficient appliances can lower your energy consumption, leave a positive environmental impact, help with long-term savings and they have many innovative features.

Energy-efficient appliances can help you consume 20-40% less energy than a standard model, saving on your electricity bill by doing so. With this reduced consumption comes lower greenhouse gas emissions These appliances can leave a positive environmental impact and contribute to sustainability efforts. Though these appliances have a higher price tag, the savings on your electric bill will make up for it in the long run.

Secondly, energy-efficient fans consume less electricity compared to other models. An energy-efficient fan will use an energy-efficient motor and aerodynamic blades that will maximize airflow while keeping your consumption low. These fans will distribute cool air from air conditioners more effectively throughout your home so you can turn up your thermostat without feeling uncomfortable and warm, reducing your cooling cost.

Lastly, energy-efficient air conditioners play a crucial part in maintaining comfort during this hot weather – they offer several advantages. To start, they have higher efficiency. Energy-efficient air conditioners are 10% more efficient than a standard model by using improved compressor technology, better insulation, and advanced airflow settings. Just like other energy-efficient appliances, the initial cost is higher, but the lower consumption will directly reduce your cooling cost, savings on electricity bills and offsetting the higher initial cost of the appliance.

Energy-Efficient Technology

With the new smart thermostat technology comes a significant advancement in home climate control. Smart thermostats offer numerous benefits that can contribute to both energy savings and comfort.

Smart thermostats have an automated temperature adjustment that uses sensors and Wi-Fi that allows them to monitor your temperature levels in and adjust those settings as needed. They can be set up to follow your daily routine and adjust to help conserve energy.

One of the main features of a smart thermostat is the ability to be programmed for personal preferences. This feature allows you to set specific temperatures for different times and days during the week.

Another feature is the remote access and control, letting you control the temperature of your home from anywhere. This can be useful if you forget to change your thermostat or even if you’re going to be away from home longer than expected.

Renewable Energy

Solar! The use of solar panels can offer great benefits for homeowners who are looking to offset their energy consumption. One of these benefits of installing solar panels is the energy cost savings. By generating your electricity from solar panels, you can reduce or even eliminate your reliance on the grid, lowering your electricity bills. Solar is a clean, renewable energy source that produces less greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuel-based electricity. By going solar you can reduce your carbon footprint and improve climate change. By generating electricity with solar, you can enhance your energy independence. Solar reduces your reliance on the grid and can protect you from changes in energy prices or any disruption in the grid, like power outages.

Solar panels generate the most electricity in the sunny summer months, this is why it’s great for when you have those increased energy demands for cooling your home during times with higher temperatures. Solar’s ability to produce electricity during peak demand periods can help alleviate stress on the grid and reduce the need for fossil fuels.

Strategies for keeping energy use low during the summer months

In conclusion, using these strategies to keep your energy consumption low during the summer months not only reduces your electricity bill but also contributes to sustainability. Improving your use of air-conditioning, utilizing fans effectively, and sealing your home against air leaks are great steps that will enhance energy efficiency while still being comfortable. Energy-efficient appliances, like refrigerators, fans, and air conditioners not only lower your energy consumption but also have long-term savings and minimize the environmental impact by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Using smart thermostat technology can further your efficiency by adjusting your temperature based on your schedule and preferences. Renewable energy options, like solar panels, can provide a sustainable solution to offset energy consumption. By using these strategies for keeping energy low during the summer months you can improve your finances and also take a positive effect towards a cleaner, more sustainable future.

Benefits of Powering Your Electric Vehicle with Solar Energy

Before we get into how you can benefit from charging your EV with solar energy you should know how solar works.

The process begins as sunlight strikes the panels, generating direct current (DC) electricity. This energy is then converted into alternating current (AC),  used by the electrical network in your home to power appliances and your EV charging. It’s a clean, sustainable way to fuel your vehicle, harnessing renewable energy for a brighter, greener future.

Now, let’s explore the advantages of powering your EV with solar energy.

Cost Savings

Firstly, you can enjoy significant cost savings. When using electricity from your solar panels, you don’t have to rely on your utility company to fill your tank – this can save you hundreds of dollars a year. In that case, you can avoid that recurring expense entirely, keeping those savings for other essential needs or even investing in further sustainability measures for your home or vehicle.

Energy Independence

Another benefit of powering your Electric Vehicle with Solar Energy is your energy independence. You can reduce your reliance on the electricity grid by utilizing a renewable energy source to power your car, This gives you more control over your energy use. You can even add a battery to your system for power outages. Most EVs have a battery large enough to power different parts of your home; another plus is that, with solar storage, you can charge your EV during a grid outage with solar energy. Solar storage also gives you peace of mind in case of an emergency, knowing that you can keep your essentials up and running.

Environmental Benefit

Beyond financial and practical benefits, there’s a profound environmental impact to consider, charging your EV with solar energy helps to reduce your environmental impact significantly. Suppose you’re charging your EV from the grid. In that case, you’re still relying on fossil fuels, which consume finite resources and emit harmful pollutants into the atmosphere, contributing to global warming and air pollution. When using renewable resources like solar energy, you release no carbon dioxide into the environment and minimize other harmful emissions associated with traditional power generation. Switching to Solar Energy EV charging can greatly reduce your carbon footprint and lead you in the right direction toward sustainability. By switching to solar-powered EV charging, you’re reducing your own carbon emissions and also actively participating in the global effort to stop climate change, making a change for a cleaner and healthier planet for our future.

The Convenience of Charging at Home

Lastly, charging your EV at home with Solar Energy is convenient – by having an EV charging station at home, you’ll worry less about where the next charging station will be. Instead, you can wake up to a fully charged EV every morning, saying goodbye to searching for a charging station and waiting in line to use it. This convenience saves you time and hassle and provides a sense of security, knowing that your vehicle is always ready to go whenever you need it. With a solar-powered charging setup at home, you’re not just embracing sustainability but also enhancing your daily convenience and peace of mind.

Conclusion

In conclusion, charging your EV with solar energy offers many benefits. When understanding how it works and integrating it into your life you can unlock cost savings, energy independence, environmental stewardship, and convenience. By using the sun’s renewable energy, we reduce our carbon footprint but also play a part in fighting climate change and creating a sustainable future for generations to come. The savings mixed with the practicality of the convenience of a fully charged EV at home. As we embrace this clean and sustainable method of transportation, we take a significant step towards a greener and more resilient world. By investing in solar energy for EV charging, we enhance our own lives and contribute to the collective effort to build a brighter, greener future.

Although all solar companies are trying to sell solar, not all of them are in it for the best interest of the customer.  Many solar companies out there are misleading and in it for the wrong reasons. You have probably seen somewhere that you can get solar for free, Ohio will pay for your solar, or your utility company will cover your solar costs – if you believe this may be too good to be true, you’re probably right.  

Hearing about these misleading and untrustworthy companies is a shame because it gives the companies that mean well a bad name.  

At Kokosing Solar we have been designing, building, and financing clean energy solutions for both Commercial and Residential clients across Ohio since 2000. Kokosing brings more than 24 years of installation experience as Ohio’s longest-standing full-service solar installer. We are strengthened with 73 years of experience by one of the largest family-owned companies in the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic, Kokosing Inc.  We are a fully insured and licensed Electrical Contractor with highly trained NABCEP-certified installers committed to delivering safe high-performance systems with top-notch customer service.  

What makes Kokosing Different? 

Our reputation: with over 20 years in the solar industry and over 1,300 clean energy installations we are a stable, local and committed partner.  

Our Team: Our team is filled with passionate people who show pride in their work and who are well-trained.  

Our results: Our business strategy is to provide a high-quality project to position ourselves as a lasting solar partner.  

At Kokosing Solar our mission is putting people to work to build a clean energy future. Our business approach is all based on our core values. 

• Safety first  
• Customer Focused  
• Have a concern for the well-being of every team member 
• Continuously improve and take on new challenges 
• Operate with honesty and integrity   
• Shirt-Sleeve manage  
• Be a good member of the community  
• Financially Strong  

What makes Kokosing Solar different is that we are mission-driven, we are a values-led organization with a mission to put people to work to build the clean energy future. Kokosing Solar has great employment practices. Not only is this the right way to do business but an approach that delivers better results with a stronger higher performing team. At Kokosing Solar we are building stronger communities. We are constantly building our communities through our way of business, our inclusion and equity focus, and by giving back. Kokosing Solar has a sustainable environmental impact, not only from our carbon–neutral fleet and solar branch but by zero-waste goal – we are taking serious actions to protect our planet.

Sales  

Another thing that makes Kokosing Solar different is our sales team. Our consultations are low-pressure, and high information. Our sales team isn’t motivated by commission during the sales process. Our team wants to make sure you’re understanding everything and while yes, we do want to be your installer we also want to make the best decision for you, your family, and your company. During the process, you won’t be handed off to another party – we handle all marketing, sales, design, permitting, interconnection, and installation.  

See what people have to say about Kokosing Solar 

• “Awesome company! They handle all aspects of installing solar panels on your home or business from evaluating the applicability, calculating energy and cost savings, obtaining local approvals, and the installation. They installed a 13-panel system on my home and were great to work with. Very professional.” 
• “Mission-driven solar company backed by a wealth of experience, great people, and just the right touch for delivering high-quality products and first-class service” 
• “I’m writing a review, not as a customer, but as a solar contractor from another state. This company’s integrity shines through the information it provides on its website. There is a lot of misinformation related to solar throughout the United States and it is rare to see a company take a firm stance on honesty, even if it makes it harder to compete. Keep outlasting those “solar entrepreneurs”!” 
• “They made switching to solar SO easy. Going solar is not cheap, but it saves you in the long run! They explained everything so well and everyone I dealt with was so kind! I will recommend them to anyone who chooses to go solar!” 

Why is Kokosing Solar being different important? 

Kokosing Solar’s experience and reputation, with over 20 years and 1,300 installations, make us a trusted and stable local partner. Our passionate and well-trained team ensures top-notch service and expertise throughout the process and our commitment to quality projects makes Kokosing Solar a long-term partner. The company’s mission-driven approach accelerates the shift to clean energy, reflecting core values of safety, customer focus, and integrity. Kokosing’s low-pressure, high-information sales consultations prioritize customer understanding and satisfaction over commissions. Our positive customer testimonials attest to Kokosing Solar’s excellence, integrity, and professionalism, setting a higher standard for the industry.  

What is Community Solar?

In Ohio Community Solar is a program that allows individuals to share the benefits of solar that they may not be able to achieve with a single solar energy system.  

Community Solar was designed to provide solar energy to people who are unable to install solar on their properties for whatever reason that may be – maybe they rent their home or don’t have enough available sunny space on their rooftop to get a solar panel system that meets 100% of their energy needs.  

Whatever the case, Community Solar gives individuals the opportunity to own their renewable energy system, while getting credit on their electric bill.  

How does it work?

Community Solar projects create electricity from the sunlight and that electricity flows into the utility grid, share owners then sell the energy generated back to the local utility company.  

There are two models for Community Solar: Ownership and Subscription  

Subscription:  

With a subscription community Solar model, a solar field is owned and operated by a third party developer. This means they will receive some of the financial benefit. Community Solar members pay for a share of the electricity that is generated by their project, they will then receive a credit from the dollar value generated by the project. Members can be given a certain number of solar panels in the project or they purchase a certain amount of electricity.  

Ownership:  

When you purchase a number of panels, this is called an ownership model. If you are under an ownership model you will receive credits based on panels that you own in the project, which can save you money on your electric bill. The full benefits – tax benefits and electric savings – go to the owners of the solar field. This is an owned asset for the member-owners.  

Why is Community Solar an option? 

Community Solar gives everyone the opportunity to have the benefits of solar energy, even if/when they’re unable to have a system of their own.  

It gives individuals the chance to save on their electric bills, lock in their electricity rates, help the community earn money and create jobs.  

Pros of Community Solar 

1. It can be used by individuals whose homes have too much shading to go solar 
2. It can be used by homeowners whose roofs or home orientation make solar infeasible 
3. Community Solar is great for businesses who are leasing their buildings  
4. It makes solar accessible to people who own condos, townhomes, renters or people living in HOA’s with restrictions on solar.  
5. Contributes to the resilience of the Ohio utility grid by diversifying sources of electricity  
6. Subscribers receive similar benefits to homeowners who have gone solar  

Cons of Community Solar 

1. It is not yet available in Ohio!  

Community Solar in Ohio  

Currently Community Solar is under debate in the Ohio legislature. House Bill 197 was introduced in 2023 and would make Community Solar an option for Ohioans. As of now, it is not.  

In 2023, State Representatives Jim Hoops (R- District 81) and Sharon Ray (R- District 66) introduced House Bill 197. The objective of Ohio HB 197 is to establish the first Community Solar Pilot Program in Ohio.  

If adopted, we imagine third party developers and interested owners alike will move quickly to adopt the benefits of a Community Solar program here in Ohio!