The findings come as the State braces for predicted extreme heat this summer, a time when electricity usage can soar.

The research found 56% of Queenslanders live in households that leave electronics on at the switch, half leave the television or laptop on standby overnight, and 48% set air conditioning below 25 degrees.

RACQ Solar CEO Jack Hooper said with the cost of living putting pressure on budgets, there were some simple ways to save on energy costs.

“Our research found 38% of Queenslanders are concerned about affording their electricity bills in the next 12 months,” Mr Hooper said.

“As we head into a hot summer, there are some simple but effective ways Queenslanders can save energy and money.

“If you have an air conditioner, only use it when necessary and set the temperature between 25 to 26 degrees. This temperature range has the best efficiency to keep your home cool and costs down.

“Another way to save is to turn off non-essential appliances such as laptops, printers, and televisions at their power points when not in use.”

Encouragingly, the research found many Queenslanders were taking steps to cut back on energy costs in the lead-up to summer.

“It’s reassuring that 67% of Queenslanders opt to use fans instead of air conditioning to save costs and 56% close windows, curtains or shutters to keep the house cool,” Mr Hooper said.

“However, our research revealed that those aged between 18-34 are more likely to live in households that don’t practice energy-efficient behaviours.

“More than half (53%) of Queenslanders aged between 18-34 use air conditioning in place of a fan, 39% wash dishes with running hot water instead of filling the sink and one quarter (26%) use the dryer on a sunny day instead of the clothesline.”

Mr Hooper said making the switch to solar could help save money on energy bills in the longer term.

“With the cost of grid energy continuing to rise, solar remains a compelling offering to reduce electricity bills and gain greater energy independence,” Mr Hooper said.

“If you have solar already, you can maximise your energy in summer by switching your usage from night to daytime while the sun is out and your panels are generating solar.

“By pre-cooling your house on summer afternoons, you can reduce the amount of energy needed for air conditioning during the evening peak. This is most effective if your home is well insulated.

“If you’re interested in making the switch to solar, you can enquire on our website and one of our friendly RACQ Solar representatives will be in touch.”

To find out more about RACQ Solar, visit www.racq.com/solar