Christmas is a long way off, but with the economy as bad as it is, small monthly savings can add up to make a big difference. The US Department of Energy has some great tips here, that can cut your personal energy related costs by up to 25%:

“Energy-efficient improvements not only make your home more comfortable, they can yield long-term financial rewards. Reduced utility bills more than make up for the higher price of energy-efficient appliances and improvements over their lifetimes. In addition, your home could bring in a higher price when you sell.”

For business owners looking to cut costs (and save even more than a single family), this excellent site not only has tips, but also software to help drastically lower your energy usage.

The Make It Right project here in New Orleans is proving that houses can be built so efficiently that the inhabitants actually make money by putting energy back into the grid.  Now, that’s some serious savings!