Plant for Energy Efficiency
Properly Planted Trees Save $$$
We are committed to encouraging customers to use energy efficiently. One of the greatest opportunities we have to conserve energy is by planting trees. Properly planted trees can stop cold winds, provide cool shade, and reduce energy usage year-round.
Remember: A properly planted tree is also one that is planted adequate distance away from power lines, meters, and transformers. Proper planting can also reduce the cost of tree trimming and tree removal required for maintaining proper safety of power lines, utility equipment, and right-of-ways.
Look up before you plant! Trees planted improperly jeopardize safety and your source for power.
Seasonal Tips for Efficiency
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Winter
The right combination of trees and shrubs can provide a natural screen that protects your home from wind, noise, and dust. For energy efficiency in the winter, plant rows of shrubs and evergreens on the NORTH and WEST sides of your home. Pine, spruce, and hemlock make excellent windbreaks. Privet, yews, and hollies make good screens. *Check for minimum spacing from power lines before planting.
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Summer
Shade trees can reduce summer energy costs. Deciduous trees (those that shed leaves in fall/winter) can provide summer shade and allow solar heat to filter through in winter. Planting deciduous trees on the EAST and SOUTHEAST sides of your home will provide shade during summer months during early-to-mid-morning hours. If your home receives a lot of hot afternoon sunlight, plant deciduous shade trees on the SOUTHWEST side of your home.
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Year-Round
Low trees and shrubs planted close to your home reduce wind currents and create neutral air space which reduces winter heat loss and buffers your home from hot air in the summer.
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Shade Your Heat Pump
Plant deciduous shade trees near your heat pump to reduce summer cooling costs. Doing so may also extend the life of your actual heat pump unit.