When we were living in on-post housing in Hawaii we never had to worry about our energy costs.  We weren't particularly wasteful, but since utility costs were considered part of our rent, we didn't have to be nearly as conscientious. 

I got our first electricity bill today, and it was not great.  For a period of about 2 weeks our charge was $87 (after fees, but before the connection fee).  We used 647 kilowatt hours in that period of 2 weeks. 

I have been reading online, looking for ways to reduce our bill. 

• Heating and cooling costs are one of the biggest contributors to an electricity bill.  Our thermostat is the recommended adjustable type, and I feel like this is an area where we can really make an impact since it is fairly temperate in this area.  I'd like to keep the central air/heating OFF unless it becomes completely necessary.  We can compensate for the discomfort by dressing warmer or cooler and using blankets and ceiling fans (Adrian just installed one in our bedroom). 
  

• I typically run the dishwasher on heated dry, because I feel like it is good for sanitizing the dishes, but I think I will begin allowing dishes to air dry.

• I do quite a bit of laundry, and I plan to start using the cold water setting more often.  I may also begin allowing more things to air dry when I can.  I do use the moisture sensor setting already.

• I'm going to try to start using smaller appliances when I can.  If something needs to be heated up, I will use the microwave instead of the stove/oven when possible.  I will also start turning burners/the oven off early so that the remaining radiant heat can finish cooking the food. 

• We already try to keep lights off unless it's necessary to have them on.  Our home has great natural light so that is fairly easy to do.  As we go along we plan to replace the heavy use lights with CFLs.

• I am a big fan of baths, but I am going to reserve long, hot baths for treats and rely more on the shower.

I think these are fairly easy ways to hopefully make an impact on our bill without feeling like we are making great sacrifices.  My goal is to drop our bill to $150 or less per month.