The Raymond Comfort Zone

Ringing in the New Year More Energy Efficiently

The 32,000 lights that made up the ball that helped ring in the New Year in Times Square were highly efficient LED lights. These lights can be thought of as an energy efficient symbol for what the United States should be doing for this year. There are many proposals on the table to make the goal of using less energy a fact nationally. Some states have already enacted laws to make energy efficiency a priority for the coming year.

Nationally the Energy Savings and Industrial Competitiveness Act was introduced last year and has been endorsed by the Senate Energy Committee. It is the bill’s goal to create jobs while increasing the use of energy efficient technologies in the residential, commercial and industrial sectors. This will be achieved through a number of loan programs.

The bill hopes to see manufacturers and efficiency advocates come together on efficiency standards for outdoor lighting, heating and cooling systems and residential appliances. The federal government will be required to use energy saving techniques and, if passed, the law would strengthen building codes to make new homes and commercial buildings more energy efficient.

Many states have been rewarding energy efficiency with programs and rebates and that will continue in 2012. Maryland and Texas have just passed legislation to increase energy efficiency codes for new homes built. Texas believes its new energy code will save the homeowner 15% on their energy bill. Lorain County home buyers can expect Ohio to establish new energy codes this year similar to what Texas and Maryland have done.

The Lorain County HVAC contractor is well aware of the current standards for new buildings but they also have many options available that will make an older home more energy efficient. Energy Star rated water heaters, furnaces and central air conditioning systems can be installed by this pro to help you see substantial savings on your utility bill.

picture credit: davehunt82