Lifestyle

Even if you don’t own your home you can still make a big difference with small, simple changes.

• Use draft stoppers, door snakes, or rolled towels to keep heat in.

• Choose LED lightbulbs (easy to swap, cheap to run).

• Run appliances at night/off-peak times if your plan allows.

• Keep curtains closed at night and open during the day to manage heat naturally.

• Make sure you’re aware of your rights as a renter. Your landlord must ensure your property meets the healthy homes standard. These are minimum standards for heating, insulation, ventilation, moisture ingress, drainage and draught stopping.

Owning your home gives you more options to make long-term improvements that save energy and money.

• Invest in insulation and double glazing to cut heating costs.

• Install energy-efficient appliances and check Energy Star ratings.

• Service your heat pump and hot water system annually for peak efficiency.

• Add solar panels or solar hot water if suitable for your home.

• Upgrade to LED lighting throughout your house.

Spending more time at home can increase power use - but small changes make a big difference.

• Use natural light where possible instead of desk lamps.

• Only heat/cool the room you work in - close doors to contain warmth or cool air.

• Take breaks outside instead of cranking the air con.

• Shut down your computer fully at night to avoid standby power drain.

• Schedule power-hungry tasks (washing, charging, dishwashing) for off-peak times.

• If you use most of your power during 11-5pm our Working on Sunshine plan might suit your lifestyle best, and save you money

With fewer people at home, it’s easier to focus heating and appliance use where it matters most.

• Heat only the rooms you use most often.

• Consider downsizing to smaller, more efficient appliances when upgrading.

• Take advantage of off-peak rates for laundry, hot water, and EV charging.

Busy households use more energy, but simple routines can help everyone do their part - and save money.

• Encourage kids to switch off lights and devices when not in use. Put those star charts to good use, and reward power saving behaviour!

• Batch cook meals to reduce oven use during peak times. 

• Run full loads in the dishwasher and washing machine.

• Use timers on heated towel rails and dryers.

• Create “warm zones” with curtains and rugs so heating goes further.

Driving electric is great for the planet and your wallet - especially when you charge smartly.

• Plug in EVs overnight or during off-peak times to access cheaper rates.

• Precondition your car (warm/cool it) while it’s still plugged in to avoid draining the battery.

• Track charging habits with your EV app to spot savings opportunities.

• If you have solar, charge during peak sunlight hours to make the most of free energy.