How to cut energy costs this spring and summer

Beat the heat without breaking the bank

As temperatures climb, energy bills often follow. (Thank you, NYC summers.) But here’s the good news: even in a one-bedroom walk-up, you have more control over your energy bill than you might think.

Below are easy, realistic ways to trim energy usage—and save money—this spring and summer. Plus, we’ll tell you how GridRewards, a simple Con Ed program, can actually pay you to use less.

1. Cool smarter, not harder 🌡

Air conditioning can be your biggest summer expense—but simple changes add up quickly:

• Aim for around 75°F when you're home—short sleeves and shorts recommended. Nudging the thermostat up a bit can noticeably cut your energy bill without sacrificing comfort.
• Use fans to keep air flowing. They use much less energy and boost comfort without extra AC. (Just turn them off when you leave!)
• Keep blinds down during sunny hours, especially where direct sunlight hits your apartment. Your AC will thank you—and so will your wallet.
• Check for sneaky air leaks. Seal gaps around windows and AC units so cool air stays inside where it belongs.

2. Laundry hacks that save energy (and money)

• Cold water is your friend. Most laundry cleans just as well without hot water—and it uses way less energy.
• Air-dry when possible. Set up a drying rack near a sunny window for a natural, free dryer.
• Only run full loads. It’s easier on energy and your time.

3. Cook cooler

Your oven heats up your space more than you think. Consider these alternatives instead:

• Try air fryers, toaster ovens, or microwaves—they use less energy and won’t overheat your apartment.
• Embrace no-cook summer recipes (hello, salads!) or grill outdoors if your building has a grilling area.
• Run the dishwasher late. Nighttime washing helps keep your home cool and reduces strain on the energy grid.

4. Stop phantom energy drain

Even when off, many devices keep pulling power. A quick fix?

• Unplug unused gadgets or grab a smart power strip to automatically cut off idle energy.
• Swap in LED bulbs. They use 75% less energy and last for years.
• Turn off lights in empty rooms. It’s simple—and it works!

5. Get paid to use less—with GridRewards

If you’re a Con Edison customer, here’s your summer side hustle: a free program called GridRewards actually pays you to save energy on hot days.

How it works:

• Sign up through the GridRewards app and link your Con Ed account.
• You’ll get an alert before special “reduction events”—usually a few hot afternoons each summer.
• Lower your energy use during those times (turn down AC, skip laundry).
• Get paid based on how much energy you save.

Most participants earn money each summer just by taking small actions.

6. Talk energy upgrades with your board

Live in a building with shared utilities? Small improvements—like hallway LEDs or better insulation—can lower costs for everyone. Some buildings even encourage residents to join GridRewards together, multiplying your impact (and savings).

Small changes, big impact‍

From nudging your thermostat a few degrees to choosing cold water for laundry, small actions can yield meaningful savings. Combine that with GridRewards, and you’re not just saving money—you’re helping NYC become cleaner, cooler, and more resilient.

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