Screw in 5 CFL Bulbs
If every American did the same, the $3 billion in energy savings could light more than 15 million homes a year and prevent greenhouse gas emissions equal to 4 million cars.
www.energystar.gov
2009-2010 Tax Credits for Energy Efficiency
Tax credits are now available for home improvements: $1,500 is the maximum total amount that can be claimed for all products placed in service in 2009 & 2010 for most home improvements, EXCEPT for geothermal heat pumps, solar water heaters, solar panels, fuel cells, and small wind energy systems which are not subject to this cap, and are in effect through 2016.
www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=products.pr_tax_credits
MN Center for Energy and Environment
The Center for Energy and Environment works to promote public interest through the responsible and efficient use of natural and economic resources.
www.mncee.org/
Reducing Standby Power Use in Your Home
Limited research suggests that an informed and aggressive approach can reduce standby
use by about 30%.
www.standby.lbl.gov/faq.html
United States Dept. of Energy
Learn ways to save energy and use clean, renewable technologies at home, while driving and at work.
www.energysavers.gov/
United States Environmental Protection Agency
America is shifting to a "green culture" where all 300 million citizens are embracing the fact that environmental responsibility is everyone's responsibility. To help, you can sign up to receive EPA's new consumer newsletter, GO GREEN!
www.epa.gov/newsroom/gogreen/
Seal the Leaks
Air leaks occur around windows, doors, light fixtures, and other wall penetrations. Plug leaks with weather stripping or caulk. See Minnesota Department of Commerce's Home Energy Guide Series.
Test for Radon
Radon is a naturally occurring, odorless gas linked to lung cancer. A simple $10-$20 test will help you decide if mitigation measures are necessary.
www.health.state.mn.us
Get Audited
Contact your gas utility to set up a low-cost home energy or home performance audit. A certified energy auditor will analyze your entire home and recommend cost-effective actions to reduce energy use and improve comfort.
Switch to 100% Renewable Power
Choosing wind power or other clean renewable energy sources is now an option for most electric utility customers. The total cost premium can be less than 1 cent per kilowatt hour. Contact your utility for details.
www.eere.energy.gov
Clear the Air
Protect your home's indoor air by switching to products made with little or no volatile organic compounds - (VOC). Always look for low-VOC or no-VOC paints, primers, stains, sealers, plasters, caulks, and cleaning products.
www.greenseal.org
Go Low Flow
Low flow fixtures reduce the amount of water without affecting performance. Add aerators to faucets, install low-flow showerheads, and consider low-flow or dual-flush toilets.
www.epa.gov/watersense
Green Building Products
An increasing array of environmentally preferable products are available for remodeling a home.
www.buildinggreen.com
Compost Kitchen and Yard Waste
Minimize your garbage and feed your garden by composting kitchen and yard waste.
www.reduce.org
Green Your Yard
Plant native and drought resistant species to reduce maintenance and water needs. Minimize turf areas and consider low-water, no-mow species.
www.reduce.org/garden
Recycle Rainwater
Protect surface and ground water resources by keeping rainwater on site with a rain garden and porous paving. Even better, install rain barrels and use the water for your landscaping needs.
www.rwmwd.org
Upgrade to ENERGY STAR
Save energy and money. ENERGY STAR qualified appliances use 10-50% less energy and water than standard models and up to 300% less energy than appliances from the 1970s and 80s.
www.energystar.gov
Certify your Remodeling Project
A remodeling project certified by Minnesota GreenStar ensures that it is more efficient, healthy and incorporates environmentally sensitive design and construction techniques.
www.mngreenstar.org |
