National Energy Efficiency Day is October 2, 2019. Employees across the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center (MMAC) are encouraged to join in promoting energy efficiency whenever possible, both at work and at home. Being energy efficient is one of the most economical means for an organization to save money and promote a sustainable future. It has also been shown that encouraging a climate of energy conservation at home also influences the mindset of employees toward saving energy at work. So what can you do to promote energy efficiency both at home and at work?

First, you can take the light bulb challenge by changing at least one inefficient light bulb to an light emitting diode (LED). Not only do LED bulbs save about 80% on energy usage, but they also last up to 25x longer than incandescent bulbs and are ecofriendly. Not only will LED bulbs save on lighting energy, but can also reduce the load on your cooling system because they produce light without generating as much heat as incandescent bulbs. So take the challenge and try them out at home. The MMAC is also embracing LED lighting. Recent upgrades to LED light fixtures and lamps across the Center are now saving over 500,000 kWh per year!

Another opportunity for saving energy at home and at work is to purchase Energy Star appliances and equipment whenever you can. Federal law mandates that all federal agencies purchase Energy Star equipment when possible. The MMAC encourages employees to specify Energy Star equipment purchases in compliance with DOT Order 4354 and the FAA Acquisition policy. At home, it just makes dollars and sense to purchase Energy Star certified appliances. According to the Northwest Energy Efficiency Council, the average household can save almost $500 every year by using Energy Star certified appliances such as dishwashers, refrigerators, and water heaters. You can save another $500 per year by replacing your old 8.0-SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) air conditioner with a new 16.0-SEER air conditioner.

Finally, energy can also be saved by keeping your thermostat set at reasonable settings. Did you know you can save 5% or more on your heating and cooling by keeping your thermostat just 1°F cooler for heating or warmer for cooling? Take a one-week thermostat challenge: Adjust your thermostat 1°F for a week. See if your body doesn’t automatically adjust to the change, to give you the same feeling of comfort at the new setting that you felt at the previous setting. Or better yet, invest in a smart or programmable thermostat for your home to adjust the temperature setting while you are away at work and overnight while you sleep. It can keep you comfortable while you are awake and save you money while you are asleep or away.

If you have any questions or suggestions regarding the MMAC Energy Program, please contact the MMAC energy manager at (405) 954-9610.