There's always something interesting happening on EnergySavers.gov. Here are some highlights.
What's New or Noteworthy on Energy Savers
- Time is running out for tax credits for energy efficiency! Credits are available for improvements that are placed in service by December 31, 2010. Other improvements, including solar, wind, and geothermal heat pumps, are eligible for tax credits through 2016.
- We've added info on LED lighting. Find out more about this rapidly-evolving technology and what kinds of products are available now—including holiday lights.
- Take a look at the new "Energy 101—Home Energy Checkup" video on our Home Energy Assessments page.
- Our Stay Warm, Save Money seasonal site has tips for keeping warm!
On the Blog, In Case You Missed It…
This Month
- Are You Keeping Up with the Joneses?
- Save Energy in Your Kitchen over the Holidays
- LED Holiday Lights: Festive, Safe, and Efficient!
- Thankful
- Is a Small Wind Energy System Right for You?
- The Home Energy Score: Measuring 'MPG' For Your Home
- World Toilet Day: Celebrate Sanitation and Efficient Flushing!
- 2011 Fuel Economy Guide Now Available
- Vampire Power Is Scary All Year Round
- Schools Move Forward with Idle Reduction
- Time to Talk about Home Energy Assessments Again!
Weekly Questions—Did You Share Your Answer?
From the Archives: More Wintertime Efficiency Tips
- Resolve to Save Energy in the New Year
- Tips to Save Energy During the Holidays
- Energy-Efficient Cooking for Winter
- Save Money with LED Holiday Light Strings
- Energy Efficiency Can Be at the Top of Your Shopping List
Comment Spotlight
Julia S. commented on "What Steps Do You Take to Use Less Water?": In the winter, it takes a little bit before warm water makes it to the bathroom faucet. Instead of running the tap and losing the colder water to the drain, I keep a bottle or basin handy to catch the cool water until the temp. becomes desirable. The cool water I can then reuse for my houseplants or in the laundry room for cold wash laundry loads. Speaking of laundry - I take care of both hand wash-only items and normal laundry loads at the same time to save on water. Usually after hand washing lightly soiled items, the soapy water still has washing potential (and detergent, to add). I then add that water to a ready load of laundry, which means the washer doesn't have to "fill up" from empty."
Blake L. commented on "Schools Move Forward with Idle Reduction": "I have never heard of these types of "no-idling" programs, but I like what I've read! These programs are an awesome way to get children involved at a young age to care about the environment. Hopefully this sort of direction will lead to a environmentally responsible generation. The simple message children can bring can also go a long way to changing the habits of hard-headed adults, and help them understand what they are doing by idling their vehicles. These programs should be implemented in all major school districts around the country. It is a great idea and one that is working to reduce pollution now, and also training a generation for the future."
Did You Know…
- Rebates for ENERGY STAR® appliances are still available in several states and territories. If you're in the market for an appliance, check if your state is one of them before you buy.
- You can check for additional rebates on the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency.
Have a happy and efficient holiday season!
