The United States is one cool country. And it should be. We use more energy for air conditioning than any other country in the world.

So it stands to reason that space cooling is the No. 1 use of electricity in the U.S., at about 19 percent of residential energy consumption. Next are lighting, water heating and refrigeration, in that order. Space heating accounts for 6 percent of electricity consumption, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration.

Knowing how much energy you use and where you use it is important. October, National Energy Awareness Month, is a great time for customers to learn how they can use energy more wisely and more efficiently.

“Increasing our customers’ energy awareness is always important, and we have a long history of helping them to be more energy-efficient,” said Joe Mezlo, manager of PPL Electric Utilities’ E-power energy efficiency and conservation programs. “Understanding how you use energy is the first step to using it more efficiently. And if you’d like to learn more, now is a great time to get started.”

PPL Electric Utilities’ Energy Analyzer tool provides customers with an easy and convenient way to monitor and manage their electricity use. Beyond that, a menu of E-power programs helps educate customers on no-cost and low-cost ways to save electricity, assess their energy use and purchase energy-efficient appliances and equipment.

“Part of our mission is to spread the word about the value of energy efficiency. Sometimes that means getting more information. Sometimes it can be a lifestyle change. Or, it can mean purchasing more modern appliances and recycling their energy-guzzling predecessors,” Mezlo said. “Regardless, being more energy-efficient helps customers save energy and money.”

During October, PPL Electric Utilities will share energy-efficiency tips on its website and through social media channels like Facebook and Twitter. Customers can check the website for appearances in their area by the E-power Team. More than two dozen appearances are scheduled in October.

Customers also are reminded that the utility’s paperless billing initiative remains under way until Dec. 15. Any existing customer who signs up for electronic billing for the first time will receive a free LED light bulb, while supplies last.

“Going paperless is free, easy, secure and convenient,” Mezlo said. “And the highly efficient LED bulb is a great way to help customers start their energy savings.”

The utility’s website also offers a wealth of useful energy information.

10/7/2013