Energy efficiency remains a huge concern all over the world. The planet’s population is growing and fossil fuels are diminishing. Leaders must take action to save energy at all levels. At Winstar, we know improving efficiency is not only good for the environment. It’s important for healthy economies as well. We would like to highlight the top efforts to conserve energy discussed in a recent study conducted by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE):
• Germany: Germany is leading the way. Loan programs and tax credits spur efforts to conserve energy. This occurs through better motors, compressors, and air conditioners.
• Italy: Italy is making changes in terms of transportation. An innovative rail network has been put in place, and the country’s leaders are urging people to replace older vehicles with more efficient ones.
• European Union: As a whole, the EU has a plan to cut energy use by 20 percent by the year 2020. Energy audits will be implemented as well.
• China: As we at Winstar have learned, residential buildings in China use very little power per square foot of space.
There are plenty of ways world leaders can enhance their efforts to save energy. For instance, they can increase support and funding for clean travel (more bike lanes!). They can also update building codes and ensure that appliance standards are met. They can even offer incentives to encourage private investments.
We at Winstar would like to know: what creative things are you doing to conserve power where you work and live?