Many people understand the need to reduce our dependence on unsustainable sources of energy. Often, their first impulse is to investigate installing a Renewable Energy (RE) system for their home or business. And while renewable sources of energy play a critical role in addressing energy supply concerns, implementing them requires significant upfront investments in time and money. We at SASD understand that addressing energy supply needs without addressing energy demand overlooks an important source of energy savings – substantial savings that begin to accrue immediately.

Convenient conservation and energy efficiency measures are available to everyone regardless of family income. Using them to reduce energy demand now, allows us to begin, today, addressing the problems of increasing energy costs and climate change. Doing so also carries the added bonus of significantly reducing the cost of installing an RE system, should that be desired and financially feasible.

Addressing energy conservation and efficiency simply makes good sense - for the environment and the pocket book. It’s the first step we should all take. Thankfully, it’s an easy one.

Tips to stop global warming
No cost opportunities
INCANDESCENT BULB: Turn off whenever not in use
THERMOSTAT: Turn heat down several degrees
WASH ONLY FULL LOADS: Laundry and dishes
CLEAN LINT FROM DRYER FILTERS: Improve air flow
CLEAN REFRIGERATOR COILS: Better cooling
CLEAN HOME HEATING REGISTERS: Improve heat transfer
LOW POWER SETTINGS: Computers/monitors
PURCHASE “ENERGY STAR” APPLIANCES: No cost DIFFERENTIAL
AUTOMOBILE TIRES: Maintain proper inflation
LAUNDRY AND DISHWASHING DETERGENTS: Use those formulated for cold water

Low cost opportunities
INSULATE: Home heating hot water supply and return lines
INSULATE: Hot water tank if warm to the touch
INSTALL A PROGRAMMABLE THERMOSTAT: Save heating oil
INSTALL HOT WATER TANK TIMER: Reduce electricity
DRYING CLOTHES: Use drying racks in cold weather; dry outdoors when warm
ELIMINATE PHANTOM LOADS: Use power strips to turn off TV and Computers
SEAL CRACKS: Windows and doors
BULBS: Replace incandescent with compact fluorescents
CONSIDER HOME ENERGY AUDIT: Identify wasted energy