energy is
evolving.
People argue, but nature acts. Whether we like it or not, our world is changing. The energy sources we use play a massive role in the health of our planet, our children, and shared future. Read through the sources below to discover more about what is happening with our state's green energy plan and how you can play a positive role.
resources
How can i
go solar?
Solar energy is powered by captured energy from the sun. You've probably noticed a neighbor or two with solar panels. Want to learn more? Click the button below to learn more about Dominion Energy's solar options and here for the SC Office of Energy solar incentives.
do we have a
climate plan?
The City of Columbia does in fact have a climate action plan (CPAC). This plan covers multiple bases: air quality, CO2 emissions, recycling, energy conservation, transportation, and much more. Learn more about that plan here, how it affects you, and how you can stay in-the-know with efforts.
what's sustainable transportation?
Sustainable transportation looks diverse. Imagine a Midlands community where people walk, bike, and ride public transit just as much or more as they drive cars. Our roads would transform to accommodate a variety of transportation in safe ways. Learn about our Walk/Bike plan below.
At-home energy tips:
We all play a role in the energy solution. The tips below are not only good for the planet, but they are good for your wallet. Read through these easy at-home suggestions below via DirectEnergy.
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Change your light bulbs to LEDs. Dominion Energy offers lightbulb discounts.
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Wash your clothes in cold water whenever possible. The quick was cycle saves energy up to 60%.
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Clean or replace all filters in your home regularly. Dirty filters make your system work harder and run longer than necessary.
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Use your microwave instead of your stove when cooking.
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During warmer months, close blinds and curtains to help keep your home's temperature cooler and reduce the work for you AC. In cooler months, open shades and blinds to let the sun warm your home naturally.
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Don't peek in the oven while baking! Every time you peek, the temperature can drop 25 F, making your oven use more energy to bring the temperature back up.
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Use natural light when possible.
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Don't leave your electronics on all day long. This goes for TVs, computers, monitors, and more.
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Set your thermostat to 78F in the summer and 68F in the winter - every degree of extra heating or cooling will increase energy usage 6% to 8%. Setting your thermostat to a lower temperature than normal will not cool your home faster.
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Using your ceiling fan will allow you to raise the thermostat setting about 4°F with no reduction in comfort.
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Using dishwashers and clothes washers/dryers at night will keep the house cooler, reduce strain on the power grid during the peak usage hours of 4 PM and 6 PM and reduce the chance of an emergency!
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Opt for a clothes line or clothes rack for air drying of clothing instead of an energy-sucking dryer.
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Set your refrigerator temperature to the manufacturer's recommendation to avoid excessive cooling and wasting energy.
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Don't leave bathroom or kitchen ventilation fans running longer than necessary.
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Replace your windows. If your home has single-pane windows, consider replacing them with more energy efficient windows, or adding solar shades or tinting film.
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Turn off the lights when they're not in use. Lighting accounts for about 12% of a typical residential utility bill.
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Don't leave your mobile phone plugged in overnight. It only takes a couple of hours to charge.
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Turn off the oven a few minutes before cooking time runs out. Your food will continue to cook without using the extra electricity.
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Watch your appliance placement. Avoid placing appliances that give off heat, such as lamps or TVs, near a thermostat.
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Dress for the weather inside. When you're at home, dress in warm clothing in the winter and cooler clothing in the summer to stay comfortable without making your heater and AC work harder.