Playa Del Carmen and Tulum Mexico Real Estate | How to save energy in the Riviera Maya

How to conserve energy in the Riviera Maya: smart tips for sustainable living

Lower your bills — and your footprint — in paradise

Living in the tropics has many perks, but it also comes with heat, humidity, and a growing demand for electricity. Fortunately, there are simple ways to reduce energy use, lower costs, and live more sustainably in your home — whether you're a full-time resident or seasonal visitor.

Here’s how to make your home cooler, more efficient, and environmentally responsible:

1. Maximize natural ventilation and shade

• Open windows in the morning/evening to cool your space

• Use ceiling fans instead of A/C where possible

• Add pergolas, palapas, or shade screens to protect windows and terraces

2. Choose efficient appliances

• Look for Inverter A/C units and ENERGY STAR-rated devices

• Keep your fridge moderately full for best performance

• Unplug devices or use smart plugs to avoid phantom energy loss

3. Smart air conditioning habits

• Set A/C to 25–26°C (77–79°F)

• Run it only in occupied rooms

• Clean filters and seal windows/doors to avoid waste

4. Install solar panels

• Even a small system can lower your energy bill significantly

• Ensure you have a CFE bidirectional meter

• Consider battery storage to extend use after sundown

5. Light efficiently

• Switch to LED lighting

• Use motion sensors for exterior lights

• Make use of natural light with large windows and skylights

6. Water heating without waste

• Use solar water heaters or on-demand systems

• Reduce shower times and insulate pipes

• Avoid traditional hot water tanks, which are less efficient

7. Build smarter

• Paint roofs white or use reflective coatings

• Install green roofs or rooftop gardens

• Use double-glazed windows and thermal materials

8. Embrace smart home tech

• Use apps to monitor consumption

• Install smart thermostats and timers

• Automate lights, A/C, and power usage based on need

Conserving energy in the Riviera Maya is about more than savings — it's about resilience, sustainability, and comfort. With these tips, you can enjoy life in paradise while reducing your footprint and embracing smarter living.