Energy Conservation

Energy conservation is the reduction of energy use, usually for financial or environmental purposes. Energy can be conserved by reducing the use of a product or practice, using it more efficiently, constructing a product with energy conservation in mind or finding alternatives that are less energy costly.

Fast Facts

1. The United States consumes about 25% of the world's energy
2. In the U.S., Texas is the state consuming the most energy, due in part to the state's oil and natural gas industries, which also produce energy
3. In 2007, 7% of energy consumption in the U.S. was produced by renewable energy sources
4. In the U.S., transportation is the sector consuming most energy, followed by the industrial, residential and commercial sectors
5. Since 2000, energy consumption has decreased in every sector except transportation
6. Energy consumption is decreasing in North America, Europe and Australia due to an emphasis on energy conservation
7. Energy consumption is increasing in South America, Africa and Asia due to population increase, industrialization and technological advancements

Areas of Energy Conservation

Energy conservation can be practiced on a private level, in businesses or industries, through laws and regulations or through public policy, such as tax increases. Major areas for energy conservation include transportation, heating and cooling, appliance use, lighting, factory production and construction. Major energy sources to conserve include oil, electricity and natural gas.

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