I too love energy efficiency. Here are some tips.
1. insulate the whole house. Insulation is the key. Old houses are not well insulated.
2. replace windows with dual-pane windows.
3. front load clothe washer
4. energy efficient appliances
5. Tankless water heater.
It’s true that new houses are more energy efficient. I’d love to buy a tear-down in Bay Park or Point Loma then build a new house.