Your utility bill holds more information than just the amount due. Look for your usage history, which often shows how much electricity or gas you used each month compared with the same period last year. Seasonal spikes can point you toward the biggest opportunities, such as cooling in summer or heating in winter.

Many utilities also offer online dashboards, free home energy assessments or time-of-use rate plans that charge different prices at different times of day. If you're on a time-based plan, running the dishwasher and laundry during off-peak hours may help. Ask your provider which options are available in your area.

Once you've trimmed what you can, knowing your typical usage also puts you in a better position to weigh bigger decisions, like whether rooftop solar could make sense for your home. The answer depends on your roof, local sunlight, electricity rates and available incentives, so compare several site-specific estimates before deciding.