Understanding The Difference Between Energy Efficiency and Energy Conservation
Energy Efficiency and Energy Conservation are two words that are quite often synonymously used around the globe. Unfortunately, there is a lot of misunderstanding, and confusion related to energy; especially when talking about eco-friendly energy.
However, while the words do have some similarities, in essence, these carry different meanings and refer to different processes. To be able to understand the difference between the two terms, you may have to dive a little deeper into the concepts of energy.
Now, since you are not alone in mixing up the words energy efficiency and energy conservation, below we will be clearing out some mist between the two terms.
Energy Conservation vs Energy Efficiency
To better understand the difference between energy conservation and energy efficiency, letu2019s start by looking at the definition of the two terms.
Energy Conservation
Energy conservation refers to a commitment on part of an individual/society to save energy by consuming less. For instance, in our homes, we may practice energy conservation by turning off the lights or fans when no one is present in the room. Also, we can conserve energy by adding an extra layer of clothing (sweater) instead of turning on the heater. Similarly, we can unplug devices when they are being used or not charging. In essence, energy conservation refers to these simple actions that can help minimize energy wastage.
For household individuals, there may be two primary motivations for practicing energy conservation. The first and the most obvious is cost-saving, while the second one is being environmentally conscious. By practicing energy conservation, households can significantly reduce their energy bills each month. And since the energy prices in the country are not cheap, this can help a household save tons of money by adopting energy conservation practices.
While the first reason is more individualistic, the second reason for practicing energy conservation is more of social and moral responsibility. Today, climate change is a real threat that is echoed in the highest global echelons. Scientists are warning of adverse consequences in the near future if the pattern of global warming is not reduced or reversed. Thereby, as social beings, it is our responsibility towards future generations to add our bit to reduce the carbon footprint by conserving energy.
Energy Efficiency
Now, when it comes to energy efficiency, the term refers to the products and their use, rather than the pattern of usage. To introduce energy efficiency in your homes, you will need to introduce energy-efficient products like energy-saving light bulbs, inverter ACs, and other intelligent products that consume lesser energy. Now, in essence, practicing energy efficiency carry the same benefits as energy conservation; since you will be saving money on energy bills, while also contributing to minimizing your carbon footprint for energy use.
Energy Conservation Ideas for Your Home
As an individual homeowner, you can implement tons of simple steps to minimize energy consumption and save on energy costs. Here are some great ways to minimize energy consumption in homes:
-u00a0 u00a0 u00a0 u00a0 u00a0Lower the Refrigerator thermostat
Refrigerators are considered essential equipment. However, what most people do not know is that refrigerators alone can consume as much as 13% of the total energy consumption of homes. This is a significant amount, which unfortunately is rarely thought about by homeowners. Now, by simply lowering the refrigerator thermostat to 3 degrees centigrade, you can significantly save the total amount of energy consumed by the refrigerator.
-u00a0 u00a0 u00a0 u00a0 u00a0Practice Air-Drying
Dryers are the other common high-energy consuming equipment found in most homes. Again, most people do not realize it, but this seemingly non-essential equipment consumes a large amount of energy. So, by simply omitting the use of drying machines and using air-drying, homeowners can save on monthly energy bills.
-u00a0 u00a0 u00a0 u00a0 u00a0Turn-off equipment when not in used
Perhaps the easiest energy conservation practice is to turn off any unused equipment including lights, fans, bulbs, or charging ports. By ensuring that no unused electric equipment is turned on, homeowners can reduce energy consumption by at least one-third.
Adopt to Energy Conservation Habits
As mentioned above, energy efficiency and energy conservation are all about making those small changes that add up to make a big difference. Since most of us are not familiar with these steps, adopting these steps may seem strange at the beginning. For instance, your instinct may force you to use a dryer as the easier way out to dry clothes. However, by being committed to energy conservation you will soon adapt.
Remember, energy efficiency and conservation are not just about saving on individual costs on energy bills, rather it is more about making the bigger difference to society. Individual actions today will shape the world for the future generation. So, be mindful of your responsibility towards your future generation in particular, and the worldu2019s future in general and commit to saving on energy as much as possible.
Get Help with Reducing Your Energy Use!
If you want to learn more about energy efficiency and conservation, you can always get in touch with energy experts at Infinity Energy Organisation, who can help you understand the potential of energy saving in homes and offices.
