Energy Efficiency

Doing the same thing with less.

Every time we use energy, we lose some of that energy as waste heat due to inefficiencies. Being energy efficient means minimizing these losses. Tight, well-insulated houses are the best example of energy efficiency: they need less energy to stay warm.

If we apply energy efficiency, we don't need to produce as much energy in the first place. Since energy production always has an impact on the environment, energy efficiency measures are a central part of the energy transition.

When you buy appliances such as refrigerators, the Energy Star label indicates that the appliance is energy efficient. This is especially important when you are off grid, as there is no “infinite” supply of cheap energy from the grid. An inefficient device may require you to purchase a more powerful PV system to power it, which may cost you more in the end.

While there are efficient appliances, homes, and even vehicles, the role of our behaviour is the most important part. To give some exaggerated examples:

• An extremely well insulated house is useless, if the windows are left open in winter.
• An Energy Star fridge is not efficient if the door is left open too long.
• An efficient vehicle that makes unnecessary trips uses more gas than a pickup truck that stays at home.

• Hydro-Québec : Energy Wise
• Train-the-Trainer: building indigenous capacity for energy efficiency
• ENERGY STAR: Find energy-efficient appliances