Energy-Saving Décor Tips for a Sustainable Holiday Season

The Holidays are wonderful times to celebrate, decorate, and host loved ones. But with all the cooking, decorating, and lighting, energy costs can add up. Here are five easy ways to keep your celebrations energy-efficient, stylish, and eco-friendly.

1. Illuminate with Energy-Efficient LED Lighting

LED lights are a top choice for energy-efficient lighting, using up to 90% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs. They’re perfect for creating a warm, festive atmosphere without the added cost on your energy bill.

• Switch to LED string lights: Use warm-white LED string lights indoors or on the porch to bring a cozy glow to your space without wasting energy.
• Battery or solar-powered LED candles: Get the same ambiance as traditional candles, but without the fire hazard and added convenience of reusable batteries or solar charging.

2. Decorate with Eco-Friendly, Natural Elements

Using natural elements like pinecones, leaves, branches, and pumpkins not only brings the beauty of the season indoors, but also helps cut down on energy-intensive production of synthetic décor.

• DIY natural centerpieces: Arrange leaves, pinecones, small pumpkins, and branches in a glass vase or on a decorative tray for a unique, zero-energy centerpiece.
• Reusable, compostable materials: Collect items from your backyard, and compost them after the holiday rather than throwing them away. This is a waste-free way to decorate and doesn’t add to your energy usage.

3. Light Up with Candle Ambiance

Candles offer a warm, inviting glow that sets the perfect Thanksgiving ambiance. They also help reduce the need for electric lighting in key areas of your home.

• Use soy or beeswax candles: These are more eco-friendly options than traditional candles, which often contain synthetic materials. They also burn cleaner and longer.
• Opt for fewer overhead lights: Keep the focus on candlelight and use dimmed lights or smaller lamps in other areas of the house, reducing overall energy consumption.

4. Practice Efficient Cooking Habits

Thanksgiving means a lot of time in the kitchen, but you can cook your feast more efficiently to reduce energy use. Small changes in how you prepare your meal can make a big difference.

• Batch cooking and slow cookers: Cook multiple dishes in the oven at once to maximize efficiency, and consider using a slow cooker for sides, which uses less energy.
• Avoid unnecessary oven use: Each time you open the oven door, the temperature drops and has to be reheated. Try to keep the door closed to maintain consistent heat and use less energy.

5. Go Solar with Outdoor Décor

If you’re planning to decorate your yard or porch, consider solar-powered lights to keep energy usage low while still creating a welcoming look for your guests.

• Choose solar string lights for walkways: These lights charge during the day and provide soft lighting at night, making them ideal for paths or entryways.
• Solar-powered lanterns and porch décor: Use these eco-friendly lights to brighten up your outdoor areas and highlight entryways without increasing your electricity bill.

By incorporating these simple yet effective tips, you can enjoy a beautifully decorated, welcoming Thanksgiving celebration while keeping energy costs down. Small adjustments like these add up, benefiting both your budget and the environment.