To inspire and promote a sustainable city through action, leadership, innovation, and measurable progress.
502-852-8854 or bfryrear@louisville.edu
ENERGY TIPS
Energy Tip 1 – You have the power!
Be aware of energy use on a daily basis and create new habits to reduce power consumption. At home, we turn off lights when we leave a room and we often unplug things when we are not using them. At work or school, we are also empowered to turn off lights and unplug equipment that is not in use. You have the power to save energy and you can make a difference!
Energy Tip 2 – There are simple things you can do to save energy!
Being energy-wise is not rocket science…turn off your computer or laptop instead of leaving it on all the time (turn off your printer too). Use a toggle-switch power strip and plug things into it – turning off the red switch cuts power to what is plugged in. Turn on only the lights you need in a room and turn them off when you are finished. Little choices add up to big results. You have the power to make a difference.
Energy Tip 3 – Know the amount of energy equipment uses.
The wattage of light bulbs is known because it is on the packaging. Much of the equipment we use has a “standby” mode that uses energy, even when the equipment appears to be off. Computers and monitors use about 200 watts per hour when on and 26 watts per hour in standby mode. That standby power is enough to power 48 CFL bulbs for 24 hours. Knowledge is power and you have the power to make a difference.
Energy Tip 4 – Social justice and electricity generation
Most people do not think about the social consequences of generating electricity. There are LG&E power plants at Cane Run (natural gas), Mill Creek (coal), and Trimble County (coal) to supply the energy needs of our community. The families and children who live near the power stations receive the majority of the pollution, particulates, and carbon emissions. While the electricity is directed across the area, we should be aware of the people who reside near the power plants and conserve energy. You have the power to make a difference.
Energy Tip 5 – Social Justice and Emissions from Power Plants.
It is not easy living near a power plant. Coal-fired plants contribute 67 percent of sulfur dioxide (SO2), 23 percent of nitrogen oxides (NOx), and 34 percent of all mercury emissions in the nation, it is not surprising to notice increased rates of asthma, cardiovascular disease, and premature and low birth-weight births in these communities. Emissions tests at coal plants have revealed 67 different air toxins. You have the power to make a difference by conserving energy.
Energy Tip 6 – Health Effects of Power Generation
One of the most misunderstood issues with electricity production is the health effects of burning fossil fuels. Air pollution from coal-fired power plants affects the lungs and hearts of people who have constant exposure to power plant emissions. Nitrogen oxides and sulfur dioxides can increase wheezing and coughing in those with asthma, airway inflammation, and can also increase susceptibility to viral and bacterial infections. You have the power to make a difference by conserving energy.
Energy Tip 7 – Health Effects of Burning Coal.
Burning coal releases mercury. After mercury is released into the air, it is deposited in bodies of water where it is converted to methylmercury (an organic form) that accumulates in fish tissues. Humans are exposed to mercury primarily through the consumption of contaminated fish. Methlymercury’s neurotoxic effects are particularly threatening to child development. Continued exposure in early childhood can result in learning disabilities and attention deficit disorders.
Energy Tip 8 – Understand Vampire Load on Halloween.
Vampire load, phantom load, or ghost load all refer to the way electricity is consumed by electronic devices and appliances while they are switched off, but are designed to use some power in standby mode. Such devices often have remote controls (TVs and entertainment), digital clocks (microwave or coffee pot), or power adapters (wireless or cell phones, laptops and computers). These devices draw power without using any features. Happy Halloween, but think how this can cost you without benefit!
Energy Tip 9 – Vampire Load.
Vampire loads come from equipment that draws power, even though it may be turned “off”. The following items use the most “stand by” power in a home or a school (and they are all entertainment-oriented). The Set-Top boxes with our TV (DVR, digital cable, digital cable with DVR, satellite, satellite with DVR) average 28.28 watts when “Off” and 30.20 watts when “On”. That is the number of watts used every hour – 24/7/365. You have the power to make a difference in what you're plugging in.