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Energy

Energy Sources

The majority of electricity in the United States comes from coal, nuclear, large hydroelectric and natural gas plants. wind energy from EPA glossary The burning of non-renewable fossil fuels is particularly harmful to air quality and public health. Researchers estimate that as many as 500,000 deaths in the United States alone can be linked to that cause each year. Thus, choosing green energy is an important way to protect your health while reducing your contribution to global warming. Green energy is electricity from renewable sources – sun, wind, biomass and geothermal. These renewable sources emit little pollution and, unlike nuclear production, leave no radioactive waste.

Purchasing Green Energy

To purchase renewable energy directly from your energy provider, contact the number on your energy bill. To learn more about creating renewable energy sources at home, contact the Consumer Energy Center of the California Energy Commission at 800-555-7794 or www.consumerenergycenter.org. The Energy Center can also provide information on renewable energy rebates and tax credits.

Energy Efficient Appliances

Appliances, especially refrigerators, use a tremendous amount of energy. Buying products certified by the Energy Star Program guarantees that the product uses less energy by “powering down” when not in use. Energy Star certified products are available at all major retail outlets. For more information about the US Environmental Protection Agency’s Energy Star program and products, go to www.energystar.gov or call (888) STAR-YES.

Energy Efficient Lighting

Lights use about 12% of a home’s electricity, so using efficient lighting inside and outside of the home can save you money and reduce air pollution. Energy efficient compact fluorescent lights work well inside, while low-pressure sodium (LPS) lamps work well outside. Motion sensors and shielded, downward reflectors work best in the mountains. By limiting outside “glare”, you’ll save energy costs, maintain a better relationship with neighbors, minimize disruption to wildlife, and preserve our view of the stars.

Energy Efficient Windows

An average home may lose 30 percent of its heat and air-conditioning through its windows. Energy efficient windows can allow you to:

select a smaller, less expensive heating and cooling system;

lower utility costs because of decreased air infiltration, decreased heat loss/gain, and condensation;

lower maintenance and replacement costs; and

experience greater comfort in the home.

One way to determine the energy performance of a window is to look for the Energy Star® label. Energy Star® is a program developed by the U.S. Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency. The program identifies the most energy-efficient windows based on requirements for specific climates. Energy Star® windows are usually 15 to 40 percent more energy-efficient than those that meet typical building codes. More information about energy efficient windows can be found at http://msucares.com/pubs/publications/p2274.html