The official report that exists says that the limit for subsidized electricity consumption will be 400 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per month, which represents the average of an R3 category user. In natural gas it is not yet defined.
The energy consumption of a home is between 350 and 370 kW. This number can vary according to: seasons of the year, what electrical devices are used, which ones are used more, what energy efficiency each one of them has, etc. That is why it is important to keep track of how much is being consumed so as not to go overboard and pay a differential.
Those who do not have the subsidy will pay the full cost of energy, which is $13,400 per megawatt-hour (MWh; or $13.4 per kWh) and electric power ($463,310 per MW per month).
How to avoid paying that “plus” that is mentioned?
In principle we must be aware of the consumption of our electrical appliances. Some approximate values:
Air conditioning of 3500 frigories F/C | Consumption in one hour (Wh): 1613
Generic cell phone charger | Consumption in one hour (Wh): 5
Computer (CPU only) | Consumption in one hour (Wh): 200
Halogen stove with 3 candles w/thermostat | Consumption in one hour (Wh): 1500
1.7 liter electric kettle | Consumption in one hour (Wh): 2000
LED TV 32″ to 50” | Consumption in one hour (Wh): 90
Taking care of your pocket = Being sustainable
There is a direct relationship between taking care of your pocket and being sustainable. There are practices that help us reduce costs in our home and that is also a help to the environment. For example: using cloth bags (we don’t buy them at the supermarket), buying in bulk, reusing and many more.
But let’s go to what concerns us now, reduce electricity consumption:
- Use LED lamps (they represent between 50 and 75% savings compared to others) and take advantage of natural light in our space (light colors reflect this type of light better).
- Wash as many clothes as possible with the economy program. As far as possible, always use cold water since hot water consumes 80% more energy.
- Iron in bulky batches.
- Turn off the computer when not in use (“Standby” mode is equivalent to up to 70% of the consumption in “On” mode).
- Put the air conditioning at 24° C in summer and 20° C in winter. At least every six months, clean the equipment filters.
- Use renewable energy sources to disconnect from the network or reduce consumption. The latter would help us to achieve the goal of not exceeding 400 (kWh) per month. One of the most important brands in solar energy in our country is offering free advice to size equipment that adjusts to the consumption of each home and thus users can stay within the stipulated range of consumption. For more information @kit.solar or its website www.kit-solar.com.ar
by CEDOC