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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