Did you know that California ranks second in energy consumption in the US? More importantly though, our per capita energy use is the fourth lowest in the country. That’s not by accident. It takes considered effort and policies, and the decisions YOU make every day plan an important role.
When it comes to energy efficiency, the saying think global act local has never been more accurate. There are important energy saving measures that we can all take today. Here are three to get you started!
Turn up/down. Heating and cooling accounts for more than half of the average American’s household energy consumption. Adjust the thermostat to 78 degrees during the hot summer months, and to 68 degrees during the winter to find the right balance of comfort and energy efficiency!
Turn off. When lights and appliances aren’t in use, shut them off. But beware of vampire appliances! Many appliances continue to use energy even when they are shut off. So use a power strip or unplug appliances to cut off the energy at its source.
Turn in. When it’s that time to turn in those old devices and appliances, be sure to upgrade them to more energy efficient options. From energy efficient light bulbs (which use 85% less power), to small and large appliances that get greater performance with less power–simply shopping for Energy Star appliances can yield 10-40% energy savings when compared to alternative new models.
The small changes we all make, when taken together, add up to a great impact. And the more of us who act now–the better. Together, let’s flex our power for a cleaner, greener, more energy efficient community!
Stuart Wood PhD
Sustainable Claremont