The Covid-19 pandemic has demonstrated that human societies can transform swiftly. While businesses work their way through the economic crisis, every individual can play a huge part in creating a sustainable environment just by making a few lifestyle changes.
A spike in electricity bills from May to September is a common issue faced by UAE residents, as there is a constant need for air-conditioning throughout the summer season in the desert. Here are some top tips for making changes now that will help keep those bills – and overall energy use – down come summertime.
Place solar panels on your roof
By simply switching to solar power, UAE residents can save thousands of dirhams every year on their electricity bills, for an average lifetime period of 25 to 30 years. Moreover, if a villa owner decides to leave the UAE before the stipulated term, they‘re likely to find that the typical resale value of their property will only increase. The sun is not only the oldest source of energy, it is also inexhaustible and very cost-effective.
For Dubai residents, Shams Dubai by DEWA allows solar installations on rooftops and garages and also connects them to the grid. This helps avoid the heavy costs of batteries and regular maintenance, eliminates AC and chiller bills. It can all be arranged through Sharaf DG, which takes care of the finance, design, operations and management of the panels.
The company has helped more than 500 families reduce their electricity consumption by 3,110,000 kWh, which is equivalent to savings of 940,000 liters of gasoline annually.
Unlike fossil fuels, solar energy does not pollute the environment with greenhouse gases. In fact, it is known to be the cleanest source of energy, making it the ultimate solution to addressing the impact and challenges of global warming.
Change all the lights to LED
Since lighting constitutes 20 to 30 percent of a typical electricity bill, switching from traditional bulbs to energy-efficient LED lamps is a great way to dramatically decrease energy bills AND significantly reduce CO2 emissions. Once you replace old incandescent, halogen or fluorescent lamps with LED lighting, expect energy savings up to 30 percent. You will be able to make the money spent back within the first four months.
Depending on how much it is used, an average LED bulb lasts from five to 10 years. LED sources use at least 75 percent less energy and last 25 times longer than regular light bulbs.
Tint your windows to reduce heat gain
With residential solar control film, UAE residents can enjoy relief from the sun without hiding behind their heavy curtains or room-darkening shades. Tinting can greatly reduce the heat that passes through a window and reflect away harsh UV rays. Solar control film blocks up to 80 percent of the sun’s heat, significantly reducing the impact of UV rays that fade furniture, carpets and flooring. While it reduces the sun’s energy coming in, it still lets in the light and keeps the temperature cool inside the room or car.
Inspect the efficiency of your AC units
According to the UAE State of Energy Report from the Ministry of Energy, Dubai residents alone consume around 3.3 million refrigeration tonnes of cooling during the peak summer season. A whopping 70 percent of the UAE’s electricity bills spike due to cooling and air conditioning, so it’s worth assessing whatever heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system you have in place.
A licensed HVAC technician can make sure that your system is reaching its full potential. With a well-designed thermostat system that monitors and controls the temperature, there is no need for your air-conditioning work harder. Cleaning clogged filters and dirty vents will also improve the system’s efficiency and ultimately increase its lifespan and help prevent the need for emergency maintenance as well as reducing energy consumption, lowering your carbon footprint, and saving money.
Monitor your devices using automation
‘Internet of Things’ is an umbrella term used for all technologies that enable the connection of a device to the Internet. By creating a ‘smart home,’ you can control all your electronic devices via an app or even a voice command. With the use of sensors, the system constantly collects data to determine your consumption patterns, personalizing your experience.
- Story provided by Sharaf DG Energy
