Written by Adrienne Day. Illustrations by Traci Hafner
Q&A with Dean Alexis Abramson
Before Alexis Abramson became dean of the Columbia School of Climate, he was an energy efficiency expert, specializing in building upgrades and remodeling.
Dean Alexis Abramson of the Columbia School of Climate Shares tips on how to reduce both energy bills and carbon footprint.
Did you know?
Renewable energy represents a great economic opportunity for the world. Experts believe it at least produces 14 million new jobs By 2030. 2023, Renewable energy around the world It is worth $1.21 trillion and is projected to increase by 17.2% each year from 2024 to 2030.
Renewable Energy Home Solutions
Solar power generation
Going to solar will reduce your energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint, while still insulated from ever-increasing utility costs. “Solar panels are almost always worth the investment,” Abramson says. “If I can pay upfront to put sunlight on my roof, that electricity is essentially free for me, Collection time Most homes have been under 12 years. ”
Wind power
If you live in a consistently windy area, a home wind turbine could be the ideal energy solution for some homeowners. When the turbine is combined with solar panels and battery storage, wind energy becomes a more resilient and part of a sustainable home energy system.
insulation
Insulating your home is one of the most effective and easiest ways to lower your energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint. “The biggest energy cost in most parts of the country is heating,” says Abramson. “But what’s as easy as going to a hardware store can be to get pink insulation and get it in your attic or crawl space and make a huge difference.”
Battery Storage
Home battery storage systems are integrated with power grids and solar panels by storing excess energy generated on sunny days and releasing them when the solar system is low, such as in the evening or cloudy days, and helping to smooth out power fluctuations. Batteries provide emergency power during power outages and help reduce energy bills.
heat pump
Heat pumps reduce your home2 It emits about 40% compared to gas, and saves money in many parts of the country Over $1,000 a year About your heating costs. “Heat pumps work even in severely cold weather,” Abramson said, “manufacturers are becoming more and more efficient over time, as the design of these systems is much better.”
Hydroelectric power generation
Hydroelectric power is the world’s largest source of renewable energy. Represents 40% of total capacity – solar power (28%) and wind (27%). “Housings can utilize it through small power generation units that generate electricity from nearby flowing water. These systems are perfect for rural homes with consistent water flow,” says Abramson. “If not, it’s not usually cost-effective, but it makes sense on a large scale.”
Geothermal Energy
A US Department of Energy research found that geothermal heat pumps are environmentally friendly, energy efficient alternatives to traditional heating and cooling, using the Earth as both a heat source and a heat sink by in and out of the ground via underground pipes. This study found that there was a large number of developments along with improvements in insulation. It can reduce more than 707 million tons Carbon emissions up to 2050.
Cut your carbon footprint at home
Are you ready to remodel your home? Here is an easy way to reduce energy consumption:
Cold water
Heating water consumes approximately 90% of the energy needed to operate a washing machine. By washing the laundry in cold water, Can reduce 864 pounds of joint2 Emission In just a year.
Unplug
Not only to protect your home from damage caused by fire and water, but also to save energy. Even when the appliance is not actively used, it still uses electricity, meaning a higher energy bill.
thermostat
By reverting the thermostat, you can save 10% per year on your bill 7-10 degrees Working day. The smart thermostat automatically adjusts heating and cooling temperature settings for optimal performance and energy savings.
Lights up
The US phased out the sale of incandescent bulbs in 2023, giving way to LEDs. I use LEDs at least Energy is 75% less, lasting up to 25 times It’s longer than an incandescent lamp.
cooking
Induction equipment that uses electromagnets to heat cooking utensils is up to three times more efficient than gas stoves. Up to 10% more efficient More than the conventional electrical range. Switching to an electric induction stove can reduce indoor nitrogen dioxide air pollution by more than 50%.
Appliances
Energy-efficient appliances not only use less energy, they waste less energy and use less resources. Energy Star Certified Refrigerators Can Reduce Carbon Dioxide Emissions 4,000 pounds of CO2 For the life of the fridge.
Air filter
A dirty HVAC filter slows the airflow and makes the system even harder and warmer and cooler. New filters use the surroundings 15% less energy More than a clogged air filter.
