Energy-efficient windows, especially Energy Star-qualified sets, save money and energy by blocking the summer sun and reducing condensation and interior fading. In a typical home, replacing double pane, clear glass windows with Energy Star windows can save up to $111 per year, according to Energy Star.

Santee Cooper customers are encouraged to contact the utility to find out if they qualify for a low-interest energy efficiency loan. The current interest rate is 1.25 percent, and information is available at the Web site.

 “Santee Cooper offers many useful energy-saving tips and resources on our Web site, www.santeecoopergreen.com,” said Zack Dusenbury, vice president of retail operations for the state-owned utility. “For our customers, Santee Cooper can go a step further and offer low-interest home improvement loans that can pay off on savings in monthly electric bills. But customer or not, anyone can save energy and money over time by making investments in energy efficiency.”

In addition to swapping out windows, installing window coverings can help save energy by insulating against summer heat. They’re not just for decoration: awnings, blinds, draperies, high-reflexivity films, insulated panels, mesh screens, shades, shutters and storm panels block the sun’s rays, preventing your home from getting overheated by summer rays.

Window treatments are not effective in reducing air leakage, which can also contribute to high electricity bills. Caulking and weather-stripping around windows helps to keep cool air inside your home.

Santee Cooper is South Carolina’s state-owned electric and water utility, and the state’s largest power producer, supplying electricity to more than 163,000 retail customers in Berkeley, Georgetown, and Horry counties, as well as to 30 large industrial facilities, the cities of Bamberg and Georgetown, and the Charleston Air Force Base.