Energy touches so many aspects of our lives – our homes, our businesses, our modes of transportation. Accessible, resilient power sources that are able to withstand threats such as natural disasters, increasing demands for energy and terrorism are crucial to our modern world. Constant changes in technology are challenging our grid, too. In addition, our dependence on foreign sources of oil can endanger our national security.
You can improve the energy resilience of our communities by conserving energy, increasing your energy efficiency, considering an investment in renewable power and improving your fuel efficiency.
ENERGY CONSERVATION AND EFFICIENCY TIPS …
• Use a smart strip to power your devices.
Learn more about smart strips HERE.
• Choose ENERGY STAR electronics and appliances.
Learn about Energy Star products HERE.
• Use LED light bulbs rather than incandescent light bulbs.
Learn how to read the “Lighting Facts” label HERE.
• Use natural light instead of light bulbs whenever possible.
• Use ENERGY STAR ceiling fans to cool air in individual rooms.
• Change your heating and air conditioning system filters regularly.
What filter is right for your home? Find out HERE.
• Schedule a professional inspection of your heating and air conditioning system annually.
• Lower the temperature on your water heater to 120 degrees and use a water heater blanket for insulation.
• Schedule a professional energy audit of your home. An energy audit can determine sources of energy waste and recommend practices for reducing energy waste. Most utility providers offer this service.
• Inspect your home for drafts. Conditioned air often escapes around doors, windows and even electrical outlets. If you notice drafts, seal any gaps and install additional insulation in those areas.
Learn more about detecting air leaks HERE.
RENEWABLE ENERGY TIPS …
• Consider renewable power options for your home. Or, consider joining a community solar program if one is available from your utility provider.
Is renewable energy right for your home? Learn more HERE.
Fayetteville PWC customers, are you interested in community solar? Learn more HERE.
FUEL EFFICIENCY TIPS …
• Chain your trips.
• Perform manufacturer-recommended vehicle maintenance regularly.
• Ensure that your tires are properly inflated for optimum fuel efficiency.
• Avoid aggressive driving habits such as hard braking and accelerating, which burn fuel faster.
• Consider a more fuel efficient vehicle. Or, consider a hybrid or electric vehicle that uses less or no fuel at all.
FIND MORE TIPS ABOUT INCREASING GAS MILEAGE HERE.
MORE RESOURCES …
ENERGY SAVER (U.S. DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY
FUEL ECONOMY (U.S. DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY
RENEWABLE ENERGY EXPLAINED (ENERGY INFORMATION ADMINISTRATION)