How to reduce your power use during the holidays

(ALBUQUERQUE, NM) – With holiday decorations popping up around town, and people being home more often, energy bills can increase during the holiday season.  To keep your PNM bill on Santa’s nice list, follow these 5 seasonal tips to cut back on your energy use while still enjoying the festivities.

1. Use LED string lights or laser light projectors. LED string lights are cheaper than old incandescent lights. Outdoor laser projectors that shine holiday lights on your home cost even less on your electric bill, take up less room in your garage, and are safer than climbing on the roof. 
2. Use a power strip and a timer for your Christmas tree or outdoor lights. Avoid keeping your holiday lights on during the day or when everyone is sleeping.
3. Buy Gifts that Don't Use Electricity or Batteries. According to energyquest.ca.gov, 40% off all batteries are purchased during the holiday season. That's a lot of money spent on batteries and a lot of energy used!
4. Invest in Rechargeable Batteries and a Charge If you buy or receive gifts that require batteries, consider purchasing rechargeable batteries and a charger. Recent advancements have made rechargeable batteries better than ever.
5. Turn off all the lights in the room when your Christmas tree is on. Darkening the room and keeping the focus on your tree makes for a nice holiday ambiance and saves you money on your electric bill.

To learn more about how to reduce your home energy usage, or PNM residential energy savings programs, visit PNM.com/save.