Conservation, the conundrum of wasting more efficiently
Consumers have many technological solutions available to reduce electricity consumption such as LEDs, Energy Star appliances and smart thermostats promise higher efficiency and ultimately lower consumption.
One emerging problem with these technologies is the mental rationalization that it can be used more because it uses less – ultimately wasting more efficiently.
Light bulbs are a common efficiency upgrade. Replacing a 60 watt incandescent light bulb to a 12 watt LED bulb can decrease consumption by 75 per cent. This is not the only way to decrease electricity bills. Take advantage of time-of-use pricing will save you from the wasting trap. Running a clothes dryer at off-peak times can cut costs almost in half. Air drying clothes can eliminate laundry drying costs entirely.
The staff at the Elora Environment Centre can help you reduce electricity costs. We offer a service that will look at how, when and where you are using electricity. The Take Charge! program provides real data and realistic options so you can reduce bills. To find out how you can become energy efficient and start saving contact the Centre at 519-846-0841.
