These days energy conservation has become a common topic. So what is energy efficiency? Simply put, energy is the ability to do work. Ideally, people want to do less work but with greater yield. Energy efficiency deals with using less energy for the same amount of output. For the homeowner, this is lowered utility bills with the same comfort in their home. Fossil fuels are among the most commonly utilized energy sources in the United States.Startling statistics
Only half of the original supply of fossil fuels is left. These diminishing resources will bring two inevitable results to the U.S. With the law of supply and demand oil prices will increase. In addition, the U.S. must turn to foreign sources to meet our demand for petroleum-based products. In 2008, as much as 57% of U.S. petrol was imported and amounted to an estimated $150 billion. Apart from these financial concerns, our ever-growing dependency on oil is taking its toll on the environment. The more energy that we need, the more greenhouse gases we create. Here’s a startling fact – as much as 75% of greenhouse gases comes from burning fossil fuels for energy. The concern for energy efficiency cannot be answered by merely increasing output. It’s about saving energy and finding sustainable sources.
At Home
Energy efficiency audits can find ways to help you cut down your utility bills. This is the first step in assessing your home’s energy consumption. Also, since home appliances typically account for 13% of energy bills at home, you can use energy efficiency appliances to increase your savings. An energy saving light bulb uses 80% less electricity while emitting the same amount of light. In addition to saving electricity, you can save a lot of money as well. Other energy efficiency solutions to consider include heaters, insulation, biomass stoves, etc.
Energy efficiency incentives
The Department of Energy and the Federal Government promote energy efficiency by providing numerous energy efficiency incentives. Tax credits, rebates and home improvement financing are some incentives you can enjoy while saving energy. You can get as much as a 30% tax credit by just buying the right appliances for your home.
Sustainable energy sources and energy conservation programs are definitely in great need. Through these efforts everybody’s energy requirements can be provided without the heavy price tag.
