Home energy efficiency

The production and use of energy is responsible for major environmental problems, primarily because of the construction of power plants and the emission of greenhouse gases, two of the main causes of climate change. Part of the solution is energy efficiency, i.e., eliminating the waste and overproduction of energy.

There are economic benefits to energy efficiency. According to a recent study, Canadians could save more than $15 billion a year by applying existing energy efficiency techniques (1).

Since 1999, Equiterre has worked to raise awareness of the impact of our energy consumption habits on the environment and health. These efforts have the added benefit of helping people save money and make their homes more comfortable.

To save energy, we can:

• keep up with minor repairs to improve window insulation and reduce drafty air leaks
• use energy-saving appliances and bulbs
• keep our homes at optimal temperature and humidity
  

Sources:

(1) MK Jaccard and Associated Inc, Demand side management potential in Canada: Energy efficiency study, May 2006.