Energy
As of 2021, energy production accounts for 25% of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions, right behind transportation. Clean energy is a fast-growing alternative option focused on completely reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Clean energy uses renewable resources such as solar, wind, water, etc. to generate energy rather than using fossil fuels like coal and gas.
Explore these practical tips for embracing sustainable energy choices in your daily life:
- Consider switching to renewable energy to fuel your home.
- Solar Energy- Solar energy is the cleanest and most abundant of all energy sources. Solar technologies convert sunlight into electrical energy either through photovoltaic panels or through mirrors that concentrate solar radiation. Energy from solar technologies can be used for generating electricity, heat, lighting, and a variety of other applications.
- Purchase Green Energy- Most electric providers have a 100% renewable plan.
- Replace older products like washing machines and dishwashers with energy-efficient products.
- Energy Star- This is a great resource when trying to find energy efficient products for your home. Energy star products meet the energy-efficiency requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency. They help save energy and money. Shop for products ranging from refrigerators to thermostats.
- Energy Saver- Find information regarding home comfort, weatherization, efficient design for your home, and renewables & electricity. Energy saver also offers a virtual tour of an energy efficient house that explores ways to save energy in your home. This resource helps give an idea on areas of improvement and where to save on energy and money.
- Switch to LED lightbulbs from incandescent lighting.
- LED lighting uses at least 75% less energy and can last up to 25 times longer than CFL and incandescent lighting.
- LED lighting uses little heat thus reducing cooling costs.
- LED's have many different colors to choose from and the quality stays consistent.
- Learn more about LED lighting and color options.
- Conduct a home energy assessment.
- A home energy assessment allows you to better understand your home’s energy use. This helps determine the areas in the house that are inefficient and how to make improvements to save energy. Home energy assessments can be conducted by a professional or can be self-assessed. Doing so may even qualify for an Energy Efficiency Home Improvement Credit. A professional auditor must have industry accepted credentials.
- Learn more on how to conduct a home energy assessment.
- Find information on the Energy Efficiency Home Improvement Credit.
- Visit the Energy Star Kids Page to get various fun and educational content to help your little one be more environmentally friendly!