Five Websites for Energy Saving Resources

The United States is currently the second-largest single consumer of energy in the world. Half of this consumption comes from the transportation and residential sectors. Energy conservation is important to reduce one’s environmental footprint. Energy conservation can be done either by using less energy, or using energy efficiently; both ways end up in saving money and resources. Here are five websites with great energy saving resources:

1. The first step towards energy conservation is monitoring current use and developing a conservation plan. This online calculator on a US Department of Energy website uses your location to set up an energy profile. It then gives you estimates of what typical and energy efficient homes spend on energy. This comparison allows users to see where one can redesign their home to start saving on energy costs.
2. There are many online calculators out there to help one calculate their energy usage; all these calculators use different metrics to calculate the results which is why it is important to know what you’re calculating. This article on the government’s Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy blog has links to 8 different calculators with information on how to use them.
3. There are many websites where you can get tips to conserve energy. One great resource is Energy Saver, the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) consumer resource on saving energy and using renewable energy technologies at home. It is a comprehensive website with a large categorized list of energy related posts. One can also subscribe to receive updates from Energy Saver, including new blogs, updated content, and seasonal energy saving tips for consumers and homeowners.
4. Another great website with resources to conserve energy is Energy Star, which is another government website. You may have noticed the ENERGY STAR® symbol on many of your appliances at home. That is because it is the government-backed symbol for energy efficiency. Whether you are a new homeowner or looking to make improvements in your home or commercial building, this website is full of resources to get you started.
5. Smarter House is a good resource for someone just getting started on their energy conservation journey. It includes simple tips and information about how day to day activities impact energy use.

Even seemingly small efforts can make a huge difference in reducing energy consumption. A simple Google search will lead you to the many other helpful resources online to help you get started on your energy saving journey.

Written by Hanyia Ahmed, Class of 2022

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