Personal Independence

The energy we don't use is money in our pockets. The energy we don't use is a cleaner environment, less money sent overseas and greater personal independence from Big Oil. There are links on the right side of the blog that contain helpful information and more will be added.
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As in 2004, the price of energy dipped prior to the Presidential Election. Coincidence?

The following is offered by the Attorney General :

November 05, 2008

Question of the Week: Is Fuel Efficiency Still In?

Last week, The Boston Globe reported that falling oil prices have signaled a return to our old gas-guzzling ways (“Old habits return fast,” October 30, 2008). While many considered the trend toward fuel efficiency amid record high prices a positive and productive outcome of the energy crisis, the article went on to explain that falling oil prices could halt or slow down the conservation movement. From trading in SUVs for Hybrids, to a well-documented spike in public transportation usage, high gas prices caused a paradigm shift and made us all reevaluate our driving habits. Those efforts played a large part in bringing the price of gas back to 2007 levels in recent weeks.

We want to know ... While the drop in gas prices has certainly been a welcome byproduct of an economic slowdown, how can community leaders continue to encourage and educate people to conserve, carpool and think green? Do you get the sense that people in your community are still taking the long view and continuing on the path to conservation? As The Globe noted, “is fuel efficiency still in?” Or are people in your communities falling back into old habits? What do you think?

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Earth Justice -
Right now, the Department of Energy is considering a new standard for fluorescent tube lights and other kinds of light bulbs that over the next three decades will save enough energy to power every household in America for an entire year, and net customers and business over $66 billion in savings.

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Stay Warm This Winter

As the temperature drops, it's time to prepare for winter heating bills. Heating is a whopping 28 percent of the average home's energy use. Before you turn up the thermostat this fall, take a few simple steps to weatherize your home. A poorly insulated, drafty house can cost you plenty. But a little bit of caulk, insulation and ingenuity can save money by immediately reducing your energy bill. Tiny cracks and gaps are like leaving a window open all winter long.
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NRDC
By making energy-efficient choices you can save electricity and money without giving up the comforts of home -- whether you rent an apartment, own a home or live with your parents!