MCC Daily Tribune
Green Tip: National Energy Efficiency Day - October 6
October 6 is the sixth annual nationwide Energy Efficiency Day #EEDay2021. According to the Energy Efficiency Day site:
- Energy efficiency could meet 1/3 of our expected electricity generation needs by 2030.
- Since 1990, savings from energy efficiency gains have averted the need to build 313 large power plants and has delivered cumulative savings of nearly $790 billion for Americans. (ACEEE)
- U.S. electricity use has remained constant in recent years even as the economy grew, thanks to energy efficiency. (Alliance to Save Energy)
How can you participate and save money?
- Clean or change furnace filters regularly – dirty filters make the system work harder (and costs you more money).
- Look for ENERGY STAR® labels when purchasing appliances.
- Switch to LED for your primary lighting.
- Turn off unused electronics – unnecessary lights, electronic devices, and appliances. If you use a power strip, you can turn off multiple items at once.
- Defeat energy vampires – devices that use energy and power even when turned off! Phantom energy devices such as phone chargers, computer cords, and coffee pots can account for as much as 20% of your monthly electric bill.
- Use window blinds/shades effectively in winter and summer. Open curtains during the day to allow sunlight in on west and south-facing windows in the winter (save 2%-12%). Close curtains to help keep your home cooler in the summer.
- Use your dishwasher effectively – use of a dishwasher over handwashing dishes for 10 minutes can save you 100 gallons of water a week.
- Living in a residence hall on campus? – Green your room and help reduce greenhouse gas emissions!
Ann Penwarden
Sustainability Steering Committee
10/05/2021