17" Monitor settings - Electricity Usage?

Hi...

I'm trying to save electricity with my 17" Optiquest Q75, (Viewsonic)
monitor. I don't use screen savers, I'd rather turn the monitor off
for 5 to 10 minutes than use a screen saver. Or just lower the
brightness while I'm away from the unit.

What effects electricity usage the most? Color selection, brightness,
contrast settings?. And how can I save the mnost, if at all possible.

Or would the savings over a month or so be minimal???

Would appreciate some ideas.
Thanks very much

Mike
Picture Rocks, AZ