Energy Efficiency Day Poster, October 7th, 2020.

Energy Efficiency Day 2020

Author: Public Works
Date: 9/23/2020 3:07 PM

Improving Energy Efficiency - Public Works

Get Ready: Energy Efficiency Day is on Oct. 7th, 2020!

October 7th, 2020 is Energy Efficiency Day (EE Day), a day dedicated to raising awareness of the ways we can use less energy and save money. Last year, over 250 County employees in 14 departments learned about energy efficiency participated in the bingo and daily quiz events. This year, let’s try to hit 300 employees!  

Improving energy efficiency is one of the most cost-effective ways for the County and its citizens to reduce energy demand and pollution associated with energy production. The County regularly assesses energy use in its facilities and conducts various projects to improve resiliency and reduce the use and cost of electricity. Some examples of these projects include office lighting retrofits and installation of high efficiency heating, ventilation, and air conditioning units.

Things being a little different this year won’t stop employees from being able to participate in a week of virtual activities related to EE Day. Some of the fun activities this year include:

  • EE Day Pledge
  • Guess the Story Through Emojis
  • Interactive Quiz
  • Virtual TED Talk Viewing

Those who participate in the activities will be entered to win energy prizes (remember how great they were last year?). EE day activities are spearheaded by Annie Secrest, Energy & Water Coordinator in Public Works Facilities Planning, in conjunction with liaisons from many County departments. The week of activities provides an engaging way for County employees to learn more about how to save energy and money.

Looking for some simple ways to save energy?

  • Turn off lights, computers, and other electronics when not in use.
  • On hot days, open the windows to let the cool morning air in. Once it starts warming up, close the windows and draw the shades to keep the cool air in and hot air out.
  • Replacing lightbulbs with LEDs. According to Energy Star, LEDs produce light up to 90% more efficiently than incandescent light bulbs!
  • Use cold water for washing clothes, which cleans most stains just as well and uses significantly less energy.

Consider EnergyStar rated appliances when it comes time to replace old refrigerators, toasters, washing machines, etc. – they can save you hundreds or thousands of dollars over time!