Saving Energy
Did you know?
The average Victorian home produces about 14 tonnes of greenhouse gas emmissions each year. This is the result of consumption of electricity, natural gas, LPG and wood. From 2004/5 data. Appromimately 59% of residential energy use is for space heating and cooling, 21% for water heating, 10% for electrical appliances, 4% for the refrigerator/freezer, 3% for lighting and 3% for cooking.
The remainder is from industry and agriculture. The demand for energy is currently growing at the rate of 1.6% per year. There are many ways in which business and the community can save energy, thereby saving both money and reducing greenhouse gas emissions (Source: Sustainability Victoria).
Tips
All homes can save energy. Important steps include:
- Set your home heating/cooling thermostat to no more than 21oC in winter and no less than 25oC in summer. Each additional degree can add to or save 10% of your heating/cooling bill
- Use ceiling fans to circulate air economically rather than use air-conditioners
- Install a solar hot water heating system when your current hot water unit needs replacing
- Make sure all gaps under doors and around windows are sealed to prevent heat losses
- Turn off unused electrical appliances at the power-point to prevent standby power consumption
- Purchase electrical appliances with the highest energy star rating. See the Energy Rating website.
- Replace incandescent light globes (old filament style globes) with compact fluorescents
- Avoid using low voltage halogen down lights
- Wash clothes in cold water and dry them on an outside line
- Sign up for accredited GreenPower from your electricity supplier. Go to the Green Power website.
Home Energy Guide
For more detailed information go to either the Saving Energy or Your Home websites.
Greenhouse Calculator
- To calculate your home's greenhouse emissions go to the Environment Protection Authority website
- To calculate your home's environmental footprint go to the WWF - Australia website
Rebates
For information on current rebates go to Grants and Rebates.
Other relevant sites:
- Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the ArtsDepartment of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts
- Essential Services Commission
- Resource Smart
For further information please contact the Environment Department on 9784 1747 or e-mail environment@frankston.vic.gov.au.