by Jason Abendroth

Created on: August 21, 2009

There is literally no limit to how much you can lower your electric bill. If that statement sounds impressive, it truly is. If it sounds impossible, it actually isn't. Given enough motivation on your part and sufficient financial resources, what you can achieve is simply a function of what you are looking to accomplish. Whether you want to shave just 10% off your electric bill each month or get off the grid completely and generate your own electricity, anything is possible.

However, since most of us lack the upfront financial resources to purchase and install power generation equipment such as wind turbines or solar power panels, I will focus instead upon those tips and tricks to help reduce, but not eliminate, your electric bill. How much effort you wish to put forth will be dependent upon how much money you want to save. In other words, if you want to slash your electric bill by 50% or more, you had better be prepared for some major changes.

Right now is an excellent time for homeowners to invest into energy-saving upgrades to their homes. The tax credits available are the highest they have ever been, although the expense of some upgrades may still be beyond the means of some. Many changes that can be made require no money whatsoever though, and I will be discussing those ideas as well.

Firstly, homeowners can likely benefit from a home energy audit from a reputable company. These businesses specialize in finding exactly where your home is siphoning the most money from your wallet. Heat and cold air can escape from your home via windows, doors, walls, the ceiling and roof, vents and even small cracks. Auditors will show you where your greatest problems lie, and as I am very fond of saying, you cannot effectively solve a problem if you don't know exactly what (or where) it is.

Upgrading to energy-efficient windows that are installed correctly will save you significant sums of money on your heating and cooling bills, especially if you're upgrading from the old single pane variety. Similarly, replacing a dated air conditioning system with a newer, energy efficient model will help too, especially in combination with meticulous attention to ductwork insulation. A less expensive alternative than these options would be to replace an old electric water heater. Also, adding additional insulation to your attic and walls can make a huge difference, depending upon how much insulation was there previously.

Many cheaper alternatives are available to

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