Ames Smart Energy

Ames Program launched in 2007 might have played a role in the city's ability to put off an expansion of its Municipally Owned Utility. The program educates customers about energy conservation and offers rebates for things like lightbulbs. 

SMART ENERGY REBATES

The City of Ames offers both its residential and commercial customers a handful of rebate programs designed to reimburse people for buying more expensive energy saving devices and materials. A list is below.

Get a Smart Energy rebate from $2 to $16 when you buy compact flourescent lightbulbs.

Get a Smart Energy rebate up to $100 when you buy energy efficient appliances including refrigerators, washing machines and more.

Get a Smart Energy rebate up to $500 for building your home with energy efficient materials.

Get a Smart Energy rebate up to $700 for installing an energy efficient air conditioner.

Get a Smart Energy $5 discount when you install a prime-time power switch.

10 WAYS TO SAVE ENERGY

Match pan size to burner size, and cover pans with lids when possible.

Try cold water for washing. Today’s detergents work effectively in cold water. Always rinse in cold water. Warm water rinsing does not get clothes any cleaner.

Replace your incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent lamps. A 15 watt compact fluorescent provides as much light as a 60 watt incandescent bulb and saves you 75 percent in energy costs.

Turn your thermostat up and take advantage of floor and ceiling fans, which use only a fraction of the energy of an air conditioner.

A 5 degree bump ahead on your thermostat can save up to 10 percent of your cooling energy.

A 5 degree set back on your thermostat can save up to 12 percent of your heating energy.

Close your blinds and drapes to block out the heating rays of the sun.

Seal your home. Windows and doors account for about 15 percent of home air leakage. Holes into the attic and the top of the foundation are the greatest sources for leaks.

Keep your oven door closed. Each time you open the door when you’re cooking can lower the oven’s temperature as much as 25 degrees. Avoid using your oven on hot days, by eating cold foods or using a microwave.

Water-saving shower heads, faucet aerators, hot water pipe insulation, and a hot water temperature reduction can save up to 50 percent on water heating energy.

-- Source City of Ames Smart Energy Program