Energy efficiency simply means reducing energy consumption by using less energy to perform the same task. For example, by installing solar panels you are using less energy since you depend less on fossil fuels and instead are using renewable energy like solar energy to perform the same task. 

The benefits of energy efficiency include reducing greenhouse gas emissions, energy costs, and the demand for energy imports, but also improving competitiveness in our businesses. By using more energy-efficient technologies and processes, the world can cut its energy consumption by one-third by 2050. Energy efficiency can be achieved through making energy-efficient homes and buildings, vehicles, appliances, and through human behavior (how people properly use these energy-efficient technologies and designs).  

The location and surroundings of a building can impact its energy efficiency since it can help in regulating the internal temperature of the building and the amount of light it is exposed to. For example, locating your building in areas with a certain climate, orientation towards the sun, and next to trees and hills can all impact the energy efficiency of your home or building. The designs of your building such as well-located windows, well-sealed doors, insulated walls, foundations, and basement slabs can reduce heat loss by 25 to 50 percent and thus increase energy efficiency. 

Another opportunity for energy efficiency is vehicles. Vehicles are deemed energy efficient when they require less fuel to cover a given distance. By requiring less fuel, these vehicles generate fewer emissions and cost less to operate. Plug-in hybrids such as a Toyota Prius and fully electric vehicles such as Teslas are examples of energy-efficient vehicles. 

Appliances such as refrigerators, freezers, dishwashers, stoves, and ovens can all be designed to use less electricity. Power management systems can also reduce electricity usage by turning off idle appliances after a certain time.  

While technology and design are the main opportunities to improve energy efficiency, it is the human behavior of how we use these technologies and designs that make a real impact. In order to be more energy-efficient, you must alter your behavior. You must want to be more energy-efficient and use these technologies and designs and be mindful of how you use them. 

Intelligent Green Solutions provides many technologies and designs that can make your home or business more energy-efficient. Learn more about what we offer here and how you can be more energy efficient to benefit you and the planet.