The commanders of Southern European Task Force-Africa and U.S. Army Garrison Italy stand united on energy conservation and bringing awareness to energy cost saving techniques. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z2YgEHomRdA

The Commander's of U.S. Army Garrison Italy and Southern European Task Force-Africa discuss the rising costs for energy and what the garrison is doing to manage resources and what you can do at home.

Rising energy costs in Europe is a daily headline. The prices for utilities began to rise last fall and continue to remain high. U.S. Army Garrison Italy, together with all garrisons in Europe, are taking steps to help save energy this season. We are facing shared energy challenges with our Italian neighbors and are taking action to reduce energy consumption now.

Here are some steps to help reduce utility bills:

1.      Wear thicker clothing or extra layers at home in the heating season.

2.      Use energy saving products like LED light bulbs.

3.      Use energy-saving settings for washing machines, dishwashers, etc.

4.      Pull down window exterior blinds and close shutters at night.

5.      Turn off electrical systems when not used or leaving the house.

6.      Reduce hot water consumption in the bathroom.

7.      Reduce your thermostat for heating.

8.      64 to 68 Fahrenheit is the best balance for comfort and energy savings.

9.      Make sure doors and windows are closed.

10.   Shut off radiators in entrance foyers, hallways, and unoccupied spaces.

11.   Turn off unnecessary lights and appliances to save electricity.

12.   If you leave the office for the weekend or a trip to the field, reduce the thermostat.

13. Avoid unnecessary energy use during peak hours (usually 7a.m. to 7p.m.) Check with your power company to confirm days and hours.

Typically the largest expenses for utilities are heating and cooling, so the thermostat is your biggest defense against high bills. Water heating is the next largest expense, so shower temperatures and length of time used can make a big difference.

Additionally, the Utility Tax Exemption Program can help save you on your gas bills in private rentals. ( https://italy.armymwr.com/programs/italy-tax-relief-officetro )

The Army Community Service also has a financial readiness program to help advise you on money matters. ( https://italy.armymwr.com/programs/ederle-army-community-service-acs )

On and off post, Soldiers and Civilians must do their part to reduce our energy usage.  We must be smart and sustain the mission.