Energy efficiency saves money

Energy efficiency is the set of actions that make it possible to improve the relationship between the final products and services used and the energy consumed. In other words, optimising the energy used while using as few energy resources as possible. The result of responsible energy consumption has a very positive impact on the environment and the ecosystem.

The efficient use of energy is a topic of great interest to governments around the world, which must invest in measures that favour a sustainable management model based on responsible habits.

Energy saving and efficiency plan

Within the framework of the European commitment to energy saving, the Council of Ministers has approved the More Energy Security Plan (+SE). This model contains 73 measures grouped under six blocks: energy saving and efficiency; promotion of the energy transition; protection of vulnerable consumers, households and companies; fiscal measures; strategic autonomy; and solidarity with other European partners.

Some of the measures that form part of this plan are as follows:

• Establish schedules for turning on and off air conditioning, lighting and office equipment in facilities.
• Controlling the temperature in air-conditioned premises and facilities.
• Promote the installation of photovoltaic panels for self-consumption in public buildings and infrastructures.
• Strengthen teleworking, to mitigate the energy impact of both travel and energy consumption in the workplace.
• Encourage public employees to use public transport to promote sustainable mobility.
• Encourage the use of bicycles by making public spaces available for bicycle parking.

Advantages of implementing energy efficiency

• Energy and cost savings
• Reduction of greenhouse gas emissions
• Improvements in supply
• Advances in innovation and energy security

How to improve energy efficiency in your daily life

In order to achieve climate neutrality by 2050, it is necessary to integrate solutions to improve the energy efficiency of public and private facilities and infrastructures. 40% of CO2 emissions come from buildings.

In addition to contributing to sustainable development, you can cut costs through the easy implementation of measures such as those detailed below:

Household appliances:

Knowing how appliances work and how they should be used can save between 10-15%:
– Invest in appliances with energy efficiency labels A, B or C.
– Put cold food in the fridge. If you put them in when they are hot, you make the fridge work harder.
– Run the washing machine and dishwasher when they are full. If you are going to wash by hand, using cold water is a way to save.

Lighting:

– Make the most of daylight hours and use LEDs instead of traditional bulbs.

Air conditioning:

– Ensure doors and windows are insulated.
– Take into account the orientation of the air conditioning, as well as keeping the filters clean.
– Keep the temperature during the day around 19-21 degrees, and 15-17 at night.
– Use thermostats in common areas to regulate the temperature.

Office equipment:

– Turn off computer equipment.
– Take regular care of equipment to encourage lower energy consumption.

Mobility:

– Encourage the use of public transport.
– Encourage the use of bicycles, scooters and/or electric cars.
– When driving, do not drive at excessive speeds, do not make sudden movements, drive with the windows up and check the tyres and engine to reduce energy consumption.
– Take the stairs instead of the lift.

Shopping:

– Buy only what you need, make a shopping list so you don’t waste money or have to throw food away.
– Whether you are a business or an individual, you can save surplus food by using platforms that provide an outlet for this food at a reduced price.
– Encourage local trade by buying organic, seasonal and fresh food.
– Avoid plastic bags as much as possible and use cloth or eco-friendly bags.

Another alternative to save energy is to implement home automation solutions. In other words, integrating smart technology in security, energy management, wellbeing or communications systems to automate a home or building. According to studies carried out by the Institute for Diversificación y Ahorro de la Energía (IDAE), home automation can save 39% in heating, 27% in hot water, 12% in electrical appliances, 9% in lighting and 2% in air conditioning.

Many of these measures are common sense. Adapting our lifestyle to responsible consumption is within everyone’s reach. If you liked these tips and want to know more about how to achieve a sustainable transition, you can find out more here.