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Reduce CO2 Emissions at Home |
Energy use in the residential sector, which accounted for
about 11 percent of worldwide delivered energy consumption
in 2004, is defined as the energy consumed by
households, excluding transportation uses. According to the recent McKinsey & Co. report, the worldwide residential sector provides the largest productivity improvement opportunity for saving energy and subsequently lowering greenhouse gas emissions. Widespread use of CFLs, thicker insulation, and efficient water heaters and kitchen appliances could obviate the need for 110 coal-fired, 600-megawatt power plants.
How do we use energy in our homes?
Residential energy use accounts for 1/5 of all energy use in the U.S. and is the largest electricity consuming sector in the country. As a result, in 2004 the US residential end-use sector accounted for 21 percent of all US CO2 emissions from fossil fuel combustion. An overwhelming percentage (68%) of this is attributable to electricity consumption for our appliances, heating and cooling, and other modern conveniences (the remaining emissions were due to natural gas and petroleum consumption for heating and cooking). |
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Energy Consumption Per Household, 1978-2001
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Household Energy Consumption by End Use, 2001
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Energy Star Program |
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| Explore the Energy Star program established by the US EPA. Learn about building new homes that meet Energy Star requirements and learn about Energy Star certified builders. Find recommendations for energy efficient appliances and other products. Energy Star >> |
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Rebates from Local Utilties |
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| Many utilities around the country offer rebates for making energy efficient changes to your home. Find your local utility to see what is available. Rebates from local utilities >> |
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Buy Renewable Energy for Your Home |
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| You can purchase energy for your home that is generated using renewable energy sources (wind, solar, among others) that are not dependent upon fossil fuels. Search by state. Renewable Energy for your home. >> |
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Buy Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) |
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| Even if your local utlity does not provide renewable energy alternatives, you can purchase RECs to help minimize or neutralize your CO2 emissions. Renewable Energy Certificates>> |
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Conduct a Home Energy Audit |
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| You can conduct your own audit or hire a professional to identify ways to make your home more energy efficient. Home Energy Audit >> |
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