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EnergyAustralia Social Media Team
November 2025
The cobwebs are coming down, the pumpkins are packed away, and the fairy lights are calling your name. As families swap Halloween for Christmas cheer, it’s the perfect moment to plan a holiday that’s festive, fun, and energy smart.
With a few simple steps, you can keep your home sparkling, your celebrations bright, and your energy use under control.
Light up without overloading
Fairy lights are the heart of holiday décor, but old incandescent strings can gobble up a lot of energy. Switching to LED Christmas lights can cut energy use by up to 80% and last for years.
Outdoor lights? Solar-powered options charge during the day and glow at night — giving your home festive cheer without adding to your electricity. Smart timers or plugs can also help. Set lights to switch on at dusk and off at bedtime, keeping your display dazzling and your energy use in check.
Decorate sustainably and stylishly
Energy-smart holidays aren’t just about lights. Try:
- Reusable decorations: Fabric garlands, baubles, and ornaments can last for years.
- Natural décor: Pinecones, dried citrus, and eucalyptus are compostable and beautifully festive.
- Upcycled pieces: Leftover Halloween pumpkins can become centrepieces or painted to add extra sparkle.
These swaps reduce waste, save energy in production, and make your celebrations more sustainable.
Party planning that saves energy
Christmas often comes with extra cooking, appliances, and guests. Keep energy use under control with these tips:
- Batch cooking: Make multiple dishes at once to reduce oven use.
- Smaller appliances: Slow cookers, microwaves, and air fryers use less energy than big ovens.
- Outdoor dining: Celebrate in the backyard to keep the house cooler and reduce air-conditioning demand.
Even simple actions, like turning off unused appliances and unplugging chargers, can make a big difference over the festive season.
Cool comfort for hot days
Warm Aussie summers mean keeping cool while staying festive. Ceiling fans help circulate air and allow air-conditioning to work less. Closing curtains during the day keeps heat out, and energy-efficient solar or LED outdoor lights can create a magical setting without extra power draw.
Gift smart, wrap smarter
Gifting is part of the fun, but it’s easy to overdo energy-intensive wrapping and battery-powered toys. Consider:
- Recyclable or reusable wrapping: Fabric wraps, paper bags, or decorative boxes that can be reused.
- Energy-friendly gifts: Board games, books, or experiences instead of battery-heavy electronics.
- Check energy labels: Some electronics and lights have energy ratings — choosing wisely helps everyone enjoy responsibly.
Pack away and recharge
After the festivities, pack decorations carefully. Coil lights neatly, label boxes, and store them safely — it’ll save time next year. Decorations at the end of their life? Check your local council for recycling options, especially for e-waste and LED strings.
Keep the spark alive
The holidays are about connection, joy, and shared moments. By planning ahead and choosing energy-efficient options, you can enjoy a home full of light, laughter, and warmth — all without overloading your energy system.
A little thought, a few clever swaps, and a pinch of planning can make your festive season merry, bright, and sustainably powered.
✨ Happy holidays — keep your energy glowing!
