Simple ways renters can lower their energy bills

Just because you don’t own your home doesn’t mean you can’t take control of your energy use — and your bill. Whether you live in a studio apartment or a rental house, there are plenty of ways to make your space more efficient, even without major upgrades.

From simple behavior changes to helpful tools and programs, here’s how renters like you can use less energy, stay comfortable and save money.

Start with what you can control

You don’t need to renovate to make a difference. Many of the most efficient energy-saving steps are quick, easy and low- or no-cost.

Try these renter-friendly tips:

• Use LED bulbs. Swap out any old bulbs with ENERGY STAR LEDs . They use up to 90% less energy and last longer.

• Layer up. Rugs, curtains and weatherstripping help keep your home warm in winter and cool in summer.

• Unplug devices when not in use. Electronics like TVs, printers and chargers draw energy even when turned off. Smart power strips make managing this super easy!

• Wash with cold water. Most of the energy used for washing clothes goes toward heating water. Cold cycles get the job done and save energy.

• Air dry when possible. Drying racks or clotheslines can help cut your dryer use in half.

You can find a variety of energy-efficient products — like LED bulbs, smart power strips and more — in the PGE+ Marketplace .

Track your use and get personalized tips

One of the most powerful tools for saving is your PGE Customer Dashboard. It lets you:

• See your energy use by day and hour.

• Track how your habits affect your bill.

• Compare your usage over time.

• Get customized tips based on your actual use.

It’s free and easy to use, and it helps you make informed decisions about when and how you use energy.

Time your energy use to save more

Energy doesn’t cost the same to produce all day long. That’s why PGE offers Time of Day pricing — a rate option that gives you more flexibility and control over your energy costs.

Here’s how it works:

• Lower prices during most of the day and all weekend

• Higher prices only on weekdays from 5 to 9 p.m., when demand is highest

By shifting some of your energy use outside those peak hours, you may be able to lower your bill — without needing to use less overall.

Easy ways to shift your use:

• Run your dishwasher and laundry before 5 p.m. or after 9 p.m.

• Use a programmable smart plug to delay charging devices.

• Preheat or precool your space before the peak period.

Not sure if Time of Day is right for your household? Use the Pricing Plan Comparison and Pricing Plan Simulator in your PGE account to explore your options and see what might work best for you.

The more you’re able to shift, the more potential there is to save. Even small changes can make a difference.

Get rewarded with Peak Time Rebates

You can also sign up for Peak Time Rebates — a free program that pays you for using less energy during high-demand times, like especially hot summer afternoons or chilly winter evenings.

Here’s how it works:

• You’ll get a notification the day before a Peak Time Event.

• During the event, try to use less electricity.

• Earn rewards based on how much you reduce compared to your usual use.

Participation is always optional — you just need to participate in half of the season’s event hours to earn. It’s an easy way to earn rewards for small shifts, like putting off a load of laundry or skipping using the oven.

Talk to your landlord about low-cost upgrades

Many rental upgrades don’t require a full remodel, and your landlord may be open to improvements that save them maintenance costs down the road.

A few worth asking about:

• Adding or replacing weatherstripping around doors and windows

• Installing a smart thermostat

• Upgrading to ENERGY STAR appliances

• Adding insulation or window coverings for better comfort year-round

If your landlord is interested, they may also be eligible for rebates or incentives through PGE.

Save energy without giving up on comfort

The changes you make don’t have to be dramatic and our energy-smart renter guide can help. The most effective strategies come down to awareness, small daily habits and taking advantage of available tools and programs. As a renter, you have more power than you might think, and we’re here to help you make the most of it.

Looking for your next rental?

If you’re searching for a place to live, check out our guide to finding an energy-efficient rental. It covers what to ask landlords, what to look for on a tour and how to spot the features that can keep your bills low and comfort high.