As the holidays approach and the ovens heat up, it’s easy to focus on creating the perfect meal while overlooking how much energy (and money) we’re using in the process. But a few small adjustments can go a long way in keeping your holiday cooking both festive and budget-friendly. From smarter stovetop strategies to making the most of your appliances, these simple tips may help you prepare a delicious spread without straining your wallet—or the planet. Let’s dig in!
This season, as people turn up the heat in their kitchens, these tips can help them keep their holiday budgets on track while preparing a delicious and festive meal. See more helpful, energy-efficient tips:
- Don’t Peek! Opening the oven door may lower the temperature, extending cooking time and using more energy. Try using the oven light and window instead.
- Pan Size Matters: On electric ranges, try to match the pan size to the burner—using a small pan on a large burner might waste energy.
- Optimize Fridge Space: A well-stocked (but not crammed) fridge can keep cool more efficiently, which might reduce strain and energy use.
- Keep it Covered: Using lids on pots while cooking might help retain heat, allowing for lower burner settings and shorter cooking times.
- Microwave Smarts: Microwaves may use less energy than an oven, and they won’t heat up the kitchen.
- Crock Pots: Slow cookers may use less energy than an oven requires and can handle many traditional holiday dishes.
Check out the Energy Efficient Products Page from Energy Star to see which appliances might help you save energy and reduce your power bill.
You can explore more at-home energy-saving tips and best practices through Virginia Energy Sense, an educational program dedicated to helping Virginians become more energy-efficient.
We’re dedicated to reducing energy waste and trying to help you save while we prepare for the upcoming holiday season.
Guest blog contributed by Rochelle Sommer, Senior Communications Specialist at Virginia State Corporation Commission