In the current climate, energy efficiency is more than just a matter of trend; it is essential. As energy prices rise and our environmental concerns continue to grow, we must take serious steps to reduce our electricity consumption. This is such a big deal because not only does it save us significant amounts of money, but it also cuts down on the harmful effects that electricity generation has on the planet. Power plants that burn fossil fuels (which is still by far the most common means of generating electricity) emit huge quantities of CO2 and other pollutants. The less electricity we use, the less of that stuff gets spewed into the atmosphere. So how can we go about reducing our demand for this harmful stuff? Well, unfortunately, exactly how to do that is rather complicated. Nevertheless, here is a basic rundown of some of the most common pieces of advice that experts in the energy field offer.
Utilize Smart Home Technology
A substantial part of your electrical power consumption comes from lighting. A simple and effective way to cut down energy use and save money is to substitute old-fashioned incandescent light bulbs with modern LED bulbs. Up to 75% less energy is consumed by LED bulbs, and they continue to work much longer than incandescent bulbs, creating fewer replacement occasions and lower power bills. Even better, smart home technology lets you keep a better eye on your energy consumption, allowing increased control over both your fixtures and your schedule, so you can still tend to those lights and appliances as needed, even when you're not home.
Insulate Your Home Properly
The right amount of insulation is vital to slashing your heating and cooling expenses. An insulated home keeps you warm during the cold months and comfortably cool when the mercury rises—without needing the kind of constant climate control that drives up energy consumption (and bills) in the average McMansion.
Insulate Your Home
There are obviously limits to what even a well-insulated home can achieve, but you might be surprised how much good insulation can do. Insulating your home to its full potential can yield “up to a 20 percent reduction on your heating and cooling bills” (which might partially explain why so many of us are now clamoring for a Energy Star).
Windows
Windows are a major point of energy loss. Fortunately, they can also be a prime opportunity for energy savings due to a recent innovation in window treatment technology that now allows us to make the same kinds of treatment choices as we can with the walls of our homes. We can cover our windows with something that, in appearance and function, resembles a wall. The key choice is whether to stick with an inside treatment or go with an outside treatment. In the past, indoor treatments were the best choice. Now, innovative materials for outdoor treatments have made them much more effective and don't sacrifice aesthetics. In addition, using outdoor treatments is the most energy-efficient option.
Invest in Renewable Energy
Consider, if you can, investing in sources of renewable energy, such as solar panels. Although it may cost a pretty penny at the outset, the substantial reductions in your electricity bills, as well as the positive environmental impact (how many times have you heard the phrase "going solar" on the news), make it a truly worthwhile investment. To help offset that initial cost, you should know that numerous governments at both the local and national levels encourage (and reward) homeowners who "go solar" with a variety of incentives, ranging from tax breaks to cash rebates.