Energy-Saving Innovations

This past Monday, the Wall Street Journal printed a special section titled, “Nine Cities, Nine Ideas.” The link to the section was passed from an individual heading up the Climate Protection Task Force for Northern CA agencies, which includes local governments. Take a look at the innovative ways nine cities around the world are getting a handle on their energy consumption…and their utility bills. While you’re there, test your Energy IQ by taking their 10-question quiz, read up on all the latest breakthroughs in the industry (hear yet of the surge in “green-collar” jobs?), and see what renewable energy projects are being implemented around the world. And then ask yourself, what are some things you can do to cut down on your home’s energy usage? We can all do something, even if that something is just replacing existing incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent lights (CFLs) – which, did you know, use approximately 75% less electricity? Well, if not, then you’ll have to see for yourself!

The City, recognizing its environmental stewardship role, put solar panels up at the Community Pool in early 2006 and has recently been using an alternative fuel (battery-operated) vehicle in the Public Works Dept. Also, if you look hard enough, you may also spot a small electric vehicle that is used for valve and hydrant maintenance up in the more narrow streets of Central Brisbane. When it comes to energy conservation, there are ways for everyone to do their share, as every little bit counts!