Third degree burns from tap water over 140 degrees can happen in less than five seconds. Watch this video to learn how to test and reset your water temperature, which can save your skin and your energy bill.

Back to top

In the last issue of EnergyWise, we reported that the Energy Tax Credits had been reinstated for 2009. With the signing of the stimulus act last month, these energy efficiency tax credits were increased considerably. For homeowners, the credits have been extended to cover 2010 as well and raised from 10% to 30% of the cost. The maximum credit has been raised from $500 to $1500 for the two years and credits that were for a specific dollar amount (such as $300 for a water heater) have been converted to 30% of the cost. (Geothermal heat pumps, solar water heaters, and solar electric or photovoltaic panels are not subject to the $1,500 maximum.) See more information at right.

Back to top

The stock market is at an all time low. Banks are paying an average of 3% interest on your savings. Where's a wise investor to go for a good return? Long-term investments in energy-efficient products and upgrades can help you save more money and energy in the years to come. It's like money in the bank, only better. Using compact fluorescent bulbs for example, can yield a 75% return on your initial investment. According to the US Department of Energy, for every dollar you spend on energy conservation, you will usually get back more than $5 in savings. See more information at right.

Back to top

Related Link:

Energy Efficiency as an Investment Fact Sheet
[PDF - 164 KB]

Spring has sprung and it's time to clean out your garage and basement. Consider donating any new and used surplus building-related materials to the Habitat for Humanity ReStore. Some of the materials are used directly in the construction of Habitat homes, but most are offered to the general public for purchase at reduced prices. The Habitat ReStore diverts thousands of tons of usable materials from the local landfill every year.

So, remember the ReStore when you're spring cleaning. You'll get rid of it, get a tax deduction and feel good.

Back to top

Related Link:

ReStore Web site

You've probably seen MGE's Hybrid Electric Car zipping around Madison. MGE purchased a standard Toyota Prius hybrid and hired A123 Hymotion to add another, larger battery system—one that is charged with grid power via an electric cord plugged into a standard 120-volt outlet. MGE's modified Prius uses electricity generated by power plants to charge a second, bigger battery to power the car. The vehicle draws electricity from the new grid-powered battery first. When this battery is depleted, the original Prius battery kicks in to provide power as originally designed by Toyota. When driven at lower speeds, 34 mph or less, this vehicle can travel as far as 30 miles on a single charge without using gasoline. Overall, this car may be able to achieve up to 100 mpg.

Back to top

Related Link:

MGE Hybrid Vehicles

Back to top

Related Links:

Focus on Energy Targeted Home Performance with ENERGY STAR

Targeted Home Performance with ENERGY STAR application
[PDF - 72 KB]

Did you find a way to save money and energy? Share your story. Your experience can help others who are working to save energy. You can make a difference.

Send your story to us and if we use it in an upcoming newsletter, we'll send you a conservation kit valued at $45.

Back to top

Back to top

At Your Service

For your convenience, here are links to our most requested online services.

Online Bill Payment
Ask the Experts
Start/Stop Service
View my Energy Use


Home Energy Line: 608-252-7117 or 800-245-1125
Customer Service: 608-252-7222

Back to top