There are many reasons for Americans to start taking energy conservation more seriously. Developing energy crises around the world have allowed US petroleum companies to enjoy significant profits, but the fuel shortages result in skyrocketing prices for the average citizen. By developing a more energy conscious lifestyle, Americans can simultaneously support the health of the planet and minimize their spending on energy and related services.
In 2018, the United States Department of Energy published a study from the Energy Information Administration, which found that three-fourths of the nation’s energy consumption is derived from fossil fuels. This figure fell to approximately 60.2 percent in 2022, but it still signifies a dependence on a limited fuel source that creates widespread environmental problems for the planet. Energy use in the home should be a point of emphasis for Americans who want to lead a more energy-efficient lifestyle. A 2015 study found that American homes generally spend just under $1,860 each year on energy, and a more recent report from National Mutual Insurance Company put that figure at approximately $2,060. The average home consumes 10,632 kilowatt-hours (kWh) annually, or 886 kWh per month. Some aspects of energy consumption cannot be changed, or can only be changed by more radical lifestyle decisions. For example, individuals and families living in Hawaii use about 6,389 kWh per year, a national low, compared to 14,032 kWh per year for residential customers in Louisiana. The only way to avoid regional energy trends is to organize a political movement centered on local energy consumption or, more simply, move to an area where energy is more abundant and affordable. Reducing and optimizing energy usage is another prudent tactic for homeowners. Most energy expenses are directed to heating, lighting, and appliances. One of the simplest energy efficient strategies people can implement involves shutting off lights when they are not in use. This may sound obvious, but following this advice can save some homeowners up to 40 percent in lighting costs. Homeowners should also strive to embrace “daylighting,” the process of lighting a house solely with natural light. Furthermore, if a room receives plentiful natural light or is rarely used outside of special occasions, homeowners should consider using lower output lamps. If a person is unsure whether a room is receiving adequate light, they can check the Illuminating Engineering Society’s recommendations for light levels. The same tactic can be applied to many household appliances, and may in fact have an even greater impact on conservation. Unlike traditional lamps, many modern electronics and appliances are engineered with an “instant on” mode, meaning whenever they are plugged in they draw a low level of energy, even when they are not in use. These devices are sometimes referred to as vampires, because they constantly feed off a home’s electrical system. One or two vampires might have a negligible impact on monthly utility bills, but most American households featured at least 22 connected devices in 2022. Another method for reducing electricity costs can also be applied to the rest of the home: modern, eco-friendly technology. When it comes to lights, light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs produce cleaner, cheaper light and have longer lifespans compared to incandescent bulbs. When it comes to other technologies and appliances, it can be helpful to look for products that carry the Energy Star label, which rates the energy efficiency of the product in question and compares it to similar products.
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AuthorVice president, managing director of business development, and senior staff attorney at BETA Abstract, LLC Archives
January 2021
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