According to statistics, most of the electricity consumption in Kosovo during the period January-July 2022 was spent by domestic consumers with 57 percent. 33 percent was spent on the commercial sector, while 10 percent was spent on the industrial sector.

As we know, the consumption of electricity during the winter is high, not only in Kosovo but also in the region, as a result of heating with electricity. This also results in higher electricity bills.

In this time of energy crisis, consumers should look for practical methods to reduce consumption and reduce their electricity bill, and in this way help the system to cope easily with the ever-increasing demand for energy. Fortunately, there are several methods that can help us significantly reduce our electricity bill.

Ambient heating

For all those who use thermo-accumulators, it is preferable to turn them on at night to accumulate heat when the electricity price is at a low rate. We should know that the use of storage heaters and radiators during the winter consumes about 70 percent of the total electrical energy for a household. Otherwise, it is advisable not to use electricity for heating during the winter, but to look for other alternatives.

Water heater/boiler

In order to save the energy used to heat the water, it is suggested to use the automatic battery for adjustment (balancing) of cold and hot water. Also, it is preferable to turn off the boiler during the day or turn it on only as needed. Statistics show that approximately 40 percent of the total household electricity expenditure is spent on keeping the water warm in the boiler. To use the boiler rationally, adjust the thermostat to a temperature between 50°C and 55°C.

Electric range

During cooking, the appropriate temperature should be adjusted and the lid should be placed on the pot to preserve the heat and shorten the cooking time. When the temperature reaches 100°, that is, after boiling, lower the temperature. Using express cookers speeds up the cooking process and is more economical. Another wise practice is to turn off the hob a few minutes earlier because the accumulated heat is enough to boil/bake the food.

Washing machine for clothes and dishes

The cost reduction that comes from washing clothes and dishwashers takes very little effort. The use of lukewarm water is preferred when possible. Detergents these days are formulated to clean even with lukewarm/cold water. Also, do not turn on these machines without being full, and turn them on at night when the electricity tariffs are lower.

Long-term method: Insulating the house

Thermal insulation of residential buildings, businesses, and offices will enable you to save approximately up to 50 percent of what you spend on heating during the winter or cooling the environment during the summer. According to studies, it is said that 24 percent of energy is lost from non-insulated walls, while even more heat or energy is lost from the non-insulated ceiling of the house, which is about 42 percent. Not insulating doors and windows wastes 18 percent of energy. Also, during the evening by closing the blinds, we can prevent direct contact of the windows with the cold and in this way preserve the heat. Floor and chimney insulation also plays an important role in energy conservation. Chimney insulation can save 6 percent, while floor insulation can save 10 percent of energy.

Long-term method: Solar water heating systems

A highly recommended alternative for great savings in electricity is the installation of solar water heating systems. Solar water heaters are mounted on the roof of a building and use solar energy to heat water. These solar water heating systems can produce enough hot water to meet most of your daily hot water needs. The average cost of installing a 150L solar water heating system for a family of 4-6 members is 600 - 800€. The investment return is 3-4 years.