Energy saving means reducing the amount of energy used. This is achieved by adjusting behaviors and habits.
Examples of energy savings include turning off lights when leaving a room and unplugging devices when not in use.
It’s important to note that he has two different meanings for “saving energy” and “energy efficiency”.
According to the The US Energy Information Administration:
“Energy efficiency means using technology that requires less energy to perform the same function. Examples of energy efficiency include using Light Emitting Diode (LED) bulbs and Compact Fluorescent Lights (CFL). It uses less energy than an incandescent bulb to produce the same amount of light. “
meanwhile,
“Energy saving is any action that reduces the amount of energy you use. Turning off the lights when you leave a room and recycling aluminum cans are both ways to save energy.”
There are myriad reasons why people, organizations and governments choose to save energy, from reducing costs to promoting economic, political and environmental sustainability. For businesses, saving energy helps increase efficiency and maximize profits.
Role in preventing climate change
Saving energy reduces emissions and helps prevent climate change. Most of the energy we use comes from fossil fuels such as oil and coal. These are non-renewable, finite resources that will eventually be depleted. Human combustion of fossil fuels is the largest source of carbon dioxide emissions. Energy savings reduce the demand for electrical energy, delaying the need for new generation.
Means of coping with global population growth
Global energy demand is expected to increase as populations grow, countries industrialize, more homes and offices are built, and agriculture expands. This can be addressed by increasing energy supply or decreasing demand. As energy supplies are finite, measures must be taken to reduce energy demand. The easiest way to achieve this is to conserve and use the available energy wisely.
Energy saving example
- Wash clothes in cold water, not hot water.
- Walk, bike, or use public transportation instead of driving.
- Don’t use the air conditioner in the summer, use the fan to cool down.
- Use the correct size burner for your cooking pot.
- Turn off devices such as computers and televisions when they are not in use.
