Energy Efficiency

Overview

Energy efficiency means using less energy to accomplish the same task. The idea is to eventually reduce our energy consumption and demands without diminishing our quality of life. Becoming more energy efficient will save you money, reduce pollution and ease energy demands within the economy.

This website was designed to give information, ideas and examples of energy efficiency and will also show how energy conservation benefits everyone. The energy efficiency cycle, shown below, depicts how energy conservation/energy efficiency works. When we conserve energy or become more energy efficient, we are also saving money and reducing pollution.

In this portion of our website, you will find information about ways to improve energy efficiency in your home, the workplace and while driving, along with information about energy efficient products. Use the ENERGY STAR online tools for tips on saving energy and money. And, take advantage of the links we list as resources to help you reduce your energy use and find out more about energy efficiency.

Did you know using less electricity (by using CFLs, energey-efficient appliances, etc.) or driving fuel efficient cars reduces ground level ozone?

Energy Efficiency Air Cycle
 
 

Ten No/Low Cost Savings Tips

  1. Unplug electronics and underutilized appliances
  2. Take advantage of your computer's energy-saving features
  3. Control the temperature in your home
  4. Use your appliances wisely
  5. Turn off the lights you're no longer using
  6. Weatherize your home
  7. Use LED or compact fluorescent light bulbs
  8. Conserve water heat
  9. Change your furnace and air conditioning filters
  10. Install low-flow plumbing fixtures

Air Quality Index

Local air quality affects how we live and breathe. Like the weather, it can change from day to day or even hour to hour. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and others are working to make information about outdoor air quality as available to the public as information about the weather. A key tool in this effort is the Air Quality Index or AQI. USEPA and the West Virginia Division of Air Quality uses this standardized system to provide the public with timely and easy-to-understand information on local air quality and whether air pollution levels pose a health concern.