Conserving Energy

[ChiliPepper]

Since so many people are struggling with energy prices, it might be useful to have a thread about energy conservation.

Maybe we can share some tips with our fellow TB's and save some money

Ok, here are some interesting sites that I've found :

http://www.cleanmpg.com/

http://hypermiling.com/

U.S. DOE's Energy Savers Guide This consumer's guide from The Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy tells you everything you need to know to make smart energy decisions, from home improvements and alternative fuel vehicles to creating your own renewable energy supply.

Energy Star Home Improvement Toolbox Choose your house's symptoms and let the Home Doctor solve your energy ills. Whether you're starting a major home-improvement project or just looking for simple ways to save energy, this site is sure to help.

Home Energy Saver Enter your zip code and some details about your home and the Lawrence Berkeley Lab's Energy Advisor will show you how to save an average of $500 annually in energy bills. The site also offers the resources you'll need to make it happen.

Pick Your Power Find a Green-e certified electricity provider in your state. The Green-e program, developed by the non-profit Center for Resource Solutions, certifies power providers who meet environmental and consumer protection standards.

California Energy Commission's Consumer Energy Center This site details smart energy choices at home, at work and on the road, and provides money-saving information on rebates, grants and loans for energy improvements.

Flex Your Power This California organization offers advice on how to save energy at home, at work and in transportation.

Alliance to Save Energy's Consumers Page Saving energy is all fun and games with the Home Energy Checkup and the Appliance Olympics.

Home Energy Magazine If you're thinking of remodeling your home, order No Regrets Remodeling: Creating a Comfortable Healthy Home that Saves Energy from the website of this non-profit residential energy efficiency magazine.

Guide to Buying Clean Energy NRDC's consumer guide shows you how to support renewable energy, and where to find rebates and incentives for energy efficiency and renewable energy in your state.

Buying Energy-Efficient Appliances Stretch your dollar with NRDC's smart shopping guide to energy-saving refrigerators, home electronics, washing machines, dishwashers, air conditioners and the like.

Real Goods This online retailer specializes in sustainable products, including compact fluorescent bulbs, sunscreens for windows and solar-powered radios.

The Insulation Fact Sheet The Department of Energy tells you everything you want to know about insulating your home (but were afraid to ask).

[hbarcat]

Conserving energy is a fine thing and I do my best to live frugally.

But that second link (hypermiling) is totally uncool. Seriously, only jerks do that.





"Hypermiling" Now this has just gotten ridiculous.

[Lalabadie]

Hypermiling feels to me like burning your neighbor's house to lower your own heating bill. Cheap gains at the expense of everyone else.

Your other links, however, are very interesting (haven't checked them all yet). I'm gonna spend some time reading more this evening.

[mike_v_s]

I'll just add a lame +1 to the other sentiments here. When the rest of the people on the freeway are going 65-70 and you're going the legal minimum of 45....you are a danger to everyone around you and should just start walking.

Mike

[gold_member_321]

I use all energy saving lightbulbs and energy star appliances yet my electricity bill is still almost 300 dollars a month

[Lalabadie]

Originally Posted by gold_member_321

I use all energy saving lightbulbs and energy star appliances yet my electricity bill is still almost 300 dollars a month

You should consider turning off your amp when you're not playing.

[CamMcIntyre]

Thanks to CFL bulbs [all the light fxitures that i brought to my apartment have them]-my electric bill is only $10-15 a month during winter/cooler times of year. I live in a 10X12 studio/efficiency apartment. My stove is gas & heat is via radiator.

Once Summer hits & i have my A/C installed [window unit]-my electric bill will jump to closer to $40 each month. I could cut that back by not running it as often and running it a warmer temperature.