Sometimes, we convince ourselves that we need to do everything at once to see results. To take the pressure off, start taking individual steps towards a clean energy apartment. Over time, those individual steps start to add up quickly. Even if you rent your home, there are plenty of simple, low-cost actions you can take to cut down on energy waste, lower your bills, and make your space more comfortable. The best part? Many highly effective energy-saving strategies are low-cost — or even free.
Small Wins
With a few small purchases or behavior changes, you can start saving and create a more sustainable lifestyle for yourself. Try starting with these simple wins:
- Turn down or turn off heating and cooling equipment when the room is not in use, and learn more about how you can use less energy to heat and cool your apartment.
- Ride your bike or walk instead of driving to save money on transportation. Taking public transit when available is also a great option.
- Switch to LED bulbs. They use up to 90% less energy than incandescents and last years longer. Replacing your old, outdated bulbs can translate directly to bill savings.
Small steps like these require minimal extra effort, but they add up to real savings over time — and they’re all within your control as a renter.
More Steps Towards Greater Savings
Once you’ve caught the energy efficiency bug, there are more ways to keep saving almost everywhere you look. Here are some ways to keep unlocking greater energy savings as a renter:
Sign Up for Community Solar
To go a step further without needing to install anything, consider signing up for community solar. Through programs available in Massachusetts, renters can subscribe to a share of a local solar farm. The electricity your share produces goes into the grid, and you receive credits on your utility bill — usually adding up to 5–10% in annual savings.
It only takes a few minutes to enroll online, and there’s no equipment, contract, or cost to join. You’re helping grow clean energy in your community while saving money every month — a win-win for your bills and the planet.
Use Smart Devices for Easy Savings
Adding a few fun gadgets to your apartment can make saving energy even easier:
- Smart plugs let you control lamps, fans, or appliances from your phone, so you can automate them or turn them off when you’re away.
- Advanced power strips automatically cut power to devices in standby mode.
- Smart thermostats (if your landlord allows) learn your temperature preferences and reduce heating or cooling when you’re not home — keeping you feeling comfortable for less.
Install Your Own Weatherization Products
Most hardware stores sell DIY weatherization products that renters may be able to install on their own. Products like weatherstripping and plastic window film are affordable to buy and can have a significant impact on comfort in your apartment. These products are installed using adhesive, so they can be quickly installed and easily removed.
Replace Old Products With Efficient Options
When something in your apartment needs replacing — a fan, a dehumidifier, or a window AC — look for an ENERGY STAR® certified model. These products are designed to do the same job while using less energy, which means they cost less to run and can save you money in energy costs over their lifetime. You don’t have to replace everything at once — you just have to remember to choose efficient options as products naturally wear out.
Here are some ways to keep unlocking greater energy savings as a renter:
Living more efficiently doesn’t have to mean overhauling your lifestyle. You can achieve the results you’re after by making small, smart choices that fit your budget and routine. Each action might feel small on its own, but together, they create meaningful savings and a more energy efficient apartment.
Looking for a little more help on how to get started? Many renters don’t realize that they can request a no-cost home energy assessment through programs like Mass Save®. An energy specialist can walk you through your apartment (or work with your landlord if needed) and show you personalized ways to save energy and money.
