In the U.S., energy use is an everyday part of life. From the moment we wake up until we go to sleep we’re using electricity and gas. From the time we’re tall enough to flip the light switch, we’re energy consumers. When you think about it, energy conservation is more important for kids to learn about than anyone else for a few reasons: They are inheriting the planet. They’re inheriting…
June 21st is the official first day of summer, but it doesn’t always seem like it. In some parts of the country there might actually still be a bit of a chill in the air in late June, especially at night. And in many areas of the country, it’s been hot for quite a while before mid-June rolls around. What is it that causes this change in weather during the…
A few decades ago the idea of using sustainable energy seemed like a long shot. Although solar panels were first developed over 140 years ago, making a solar panel system that was affordable, efficient and convenient enough for the masses to use was a long way off. Wind and hydropower are similarly situated. Today solar panels are getting more and more efficient. Typically the most efficient solar panels have a…
There’s a lot of buzz about electric vehicles (EVs) right now. Every quarter EVs are a larger market share of new vehicles sold in the U.S. It’s sure to reduce the number of emissions that are generated on the road, but what about the impact on the energy market? Electric vehicles may not require gasoline to get you where you need to go, but electricity is essential. Instead of gallons…
You may have heard that last year the Residential Energy Efficiency Tax Credits were extended through 2032. But what about taxes for 2022? What kind of tax credits and deductions can homeowners get for improvements that were made last year? Since things have changed between this year and last year, tax season could get confusing if you made energy efficiency improvements or upgrades to your home. Check out this comprehensive…
After months of hunkering down inside to avoid the cold, spring weather is finally here. You may naturally want to venture outdoors more now that things are warming up, but there are also a handful of benefits to getting outside. Here are five ways that getting outdoors this spring can significantly improve your health and reduce utility costs. Take Advantage of the Better Air Quality Did you know the air…
Spring cleaning season is right around the corner, which means at the moment you may be creating a list of items you’ll need to spruce up your house. If there are any cleaning products on the list you may want to check the ingredients. Some cleaning products are much more harsh than others. They contain chemicals that clean up stains, dirt and grime, but in the process they can…
With each passing year there’s more focus on how we can increase energy efficiency and decrease energy demand. In 2023 we’re likely to see a lot of investment in energy reducing improvements for a variety of reasons. Right now there’s a perfect alignment of technology, consumer demand and government assistance. Let’s take a look at which energy reducing improvements more people will be considering in the coming year. Get Federal…
As the soaring and scorching temperatures of summer 2021 have shown, our world is getting hotter, and all people need access to affordable and efficient cooling systems. For the more than 85 percent of Americans who do have air conditioning, concerns about the energy efficiency of their cooling systems, and those systems’ impacts on the environment, also come into play the more they have them in use. A Portrait of…
It’s summer, and for many families who have been cooped inside for much of the past year, a road trip is sounding better and better. If you own one of the approximately 2 million electric vehicles in the United States, you will enjoy some distinct advantages—but you’ll also need to remember a few crucial points about operating your EV on the nation’s roads and highways. 1. Expect the Unexpected Experienced…
