Energy efficiency is the cleanest energy resource. Unlike generated electricity, energy-efficient technologies (known as negawatts) emit no GHGs and don’t require mining or land use.
Efficient appliances, homes, buildings, and transportation cut costs and emissions while promoting a sustainable future. ACEEE’s new report Recognizing the Value of Energy Efficiency’s Multiple Benefits describes gains beyond energy savings.
Cost Savings
Energy efficiency reduces energy costs, saving money for individuals and businesses. It also reduces greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to planetary sustainability.
Many homeowners and businesses are surprised to learn that a few simple tricks can save power and money. Whether it’s a retrofit like an insulation upgrade or a new heat pump that eliminates fossil fuel use, energy efficiency helps you live more comfortably and cut your carbon footprint.
Energy efficiency can help communities grow while reducing climate change impacts and energy costs. Local economies can benefit from the jobs created by building and installing energy-efficiency upgrades, while utility customers enjoy lower rates. The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) estimates that 17 to 20 jobs result for every $1 million invested in energy-efficiency projects. In addition, the construction of energy-efficiency upgrades provides a range of indirect job opportunities. These include supplying and producing materials to build the upgrades, and those workers’ incomes that get reinvested in the economy through purchasing goods and services (called induced jobs). ACEEE has also developed research into the concept of multiple benefits.
Health Benefits
Energy efficiency upgrades help to provide the same services that we need without consuming so much energy. That means less strain on fossil fuels and non-renewable resources, which helps to protect our environment for future generations.
Homeowners who invest in energy-efficient upgrades can enjoy comfort conditions and lower utility bills, which relieves stress and improves mental health. Energy-efficient homes prioritize natural lighting and minimize noise pollution, both of which are good for mood and overall well-being.
Energy-efficient homes are often able to generate surplus electricity that they can sell back to their energy company, which can result in monetary savings or net credits on future utility bills. This energy independence reduces dependence on fluctuating energy prices and enhances financial stability. Education about energy efficiency prompts homeowners to be more mindful about their consumption and promotes sustainable living habits. They can also pass those values onto their children and grandchildren to ensure a brighter, more responsible future.
Environmental Benefits
The use of energy efficiency measures can help cut carbon emissions and improve the planet’s environment. This can be done by using appliances with lower energy ratings and ensuring that they are maintained regularly, as well as through a variety of other measures, such as implementing renewables and changing daily habits.
The most common way to save energy is through conservation and choosing products with high energy efficiency labels, which will have a lower upfront cost but will save money in the long run through reduced electricity consumption. Another important approach is the Ecodesign framework, which helps to shape the market for energy-related products by establishing efficiency standards.
Besides benefiting consumers, energy efficiency can also help reduce electricity demand for utility companies, which may offset costs of generation and transmission. This can lower utility bills for consumers and provide cost benefits for investors-owned utilities. However, this can also lead to higher prices for non-energy services.
Energy Independence
The energy independence associated with energy efficiency relates to our ability to provide the same or better services using less energy. This applies to everything from a cold drink or hot shower to lighting, heating or cooling homes and businesses, running transportation or industrial operations.
For example, a well-insulated house uses less energy in winter than one built with less insulation; a refrigerator that runs on solar power uses less electricity than the same model that ran on gas; and factories can operate more efficiently with new technologies and more streamlined business practices.
Energy efficiency is the largest, cheapest, safest and cleanest energy resource available. It can be used to meet all energy needs, reduce bills and emissions, and protect against future energy disruptions. Energy independence is now more achievable for Irish households than ever thanks to SEAI grants, financing options and the option of a net-zero home. The next step is achieving energy independence for businesses and communities.