Eco-Friendly resolutions in 2026: Energy conservation in Alabama

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Remember earlier this year, Jan. 22 2025 when it snowed 7.5 inches in Mobile, shattering a 130-year-old record? Or our July 2025 heat wave that swept Huntsville, becoming the second hottest month in recorded history for the Rocket City?

Thanks to Alabama’s extreme weather and growing population, the demand for power  continues to grow, which impacts the environment and our pocketbook.

It doesn’t have to be that way.

For example, the average U.S. household has up to 75 outlets for appliances, computers and lighting. Many of the items throughout a home (other than appliances like refrigerators and freezers) do not need to be plugged in and continually “on.”

Often, simply turning off appliances (coffee pots, TVs and DVR) that are on standby power mode (phantom power) can help homeowners save between 5% to 15% per household on their power bills.

Taking small steps can make a big difference.

In our first story about eco-friendly resolutions for 2026 in Alabama, we looked at ways people can begin composting in the new year.

For our second story in this three-part series, we explore ways you can resolve to become more energy efficient in the new year, saving not only natural resources but also money. 

Why conserve energy 

Why should Alabamians resolve to conserve energy in 2026? 

More than 60% of Alabama’s electricity comes from burning fossil fuels—including natural gas, oil and coal. 

Simply put, using less electricity means less power generation, which results in saving natural resources and reducing air and water pollution.

Bottomline: Energy conservation lowers demand for electricity, delaying the need to build new power plants and infrastructure, and resulting in lower electricity and gas bills.

“It is important to conserve our resources. Most people understand that. But energy waste costs you money. Your electric consumption is something that you can control. If you can avoid using it, avoid it, it will save you money.”

Joe Gehrdes, Director of External Affairs for Huntsville Utilities

How to save energy in 2026

Ready to start saving energy in 2026? Here are a few tips to get you started provided to us by Huntsville Utilities and Energy Alabama.

Conduct an energy audit

One of the best places to start your energy efficiency journey is an energy audit. In North Alabama, TVA will actually send someone out to conduct an in-person audit for your home or business. Both TVA and Alabama Power offer do-it-yourself online assessments, too.

• TVA – Energy Right (Also contact your local utility directly)
• Alabama Power – Save Money and Energy online tools

Weatherize your home

The new year is the perfect time to start weatherizing your home, which can involve  sealing cracks and weatherstripping doors and windows. Much of the work can be done by the homeowner. Insulation can be a little bit more expensive, but the savings are worth it.

One thing an audit might show is the need to upgrade your windows or heating systems. The state of Alabama has a weatherization grant program to assist homeowners and businesses.

Visit the ADECA website for information or watch the video below.

Energy conservation checklist

Here is something I’ve always wanted as a homeowner: An energy conservation checklist. Check it out.

✅ Make sure your HVAC receives professional maintenance twice a year, and don’t forget to clean and replace your furnace, air conditioner, and heat pump filters regularly!

✅ During winter set your thermostat between 66 and 68 degrees. For the summer, try 78°F (25.5°C) when you’re home and awake to save energy and higher (like 80-85°F) when you’re away or asleep. Install a programmable thermostat to set your thermostat back automatically at night.

✅ Survey your lights for opportunities to replace incandescent and fluorescent lights with (LEDs).

✅ During winter, open curtains on sunny days to allow sunlight to naturally heat your home and close them at night to reduce the chill you may feel from cold windows.

✅ Unplug equipment that drains energy when not in use (i.e. cell phone chargers, fans, coffeemakers, desktop printers, radios, etc.)

Use ENERGY STAR labeled products. Find retailers near you on the ENERGY STAR website

More resources to help you keep your 2026 resolution

Need more guidance? There are numerous federal and state agencies ready to help you keep this eco-friendly resolution.

Here are some of the most useful resources in Alabama:

• Alabama Cooperative Extension Service
• Spire Energy
• TVA
• Alabama Power
• Energy Star
• Dsire (places to go energy conservation incentives)
• ADECA Energy Program

“You know, there is a saying in the industry that the cheapest electron is the one never generated, and that’s what energy efficiency is. The less we have to generate and the lower that demand, the lower the cost for everybody.”

Joe Gehrdes, Director of External Affairs for Huntsville Utilities

Next up: Water Conservation

Our third eco-friendly resolution for 2026 will focus on water conservation. Join us in a conversation with the Alabama Rivers Alliance about what kinds of everyday activities you can do to save water and why it matters.

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