RunningWithBulls.com - The curse of Sanfermin

Sustainable Energy Ireland launched their new website, combatclimatechange.ie in conjunction with the beginning of Energy Awareness Week.

Two very useful sections available on the Combat Cllimate Change site are the Top Ten Energy Saving tips, and the Energy Usage Calculator.

Top Energy Saving tips:

1. Turn your TV off rather than leave it on stand-by - equipment on stand-by uses up to 20% of the energy it would use when fully on. (Saving per household - €30 annually)
2. Walk or cycle instead of driving for short journeys - it costs nothing and is good for you.
3. Turn your heating down - reducing your thermostat by 10 celsius will knock 10% off your heating bill.
4. Buy ‘A’ rated kitchen appliances - they cost less to run and over time will give you considerable savings on your electricity bill.
5. Use energy efficient light bulbs (CFLs) instead of traditional bulbs - they use 1/5th energy and last up to 10 times as long.
6. Insulate your attic - attic insulation will keep the heat in your home for longer and pay for itself in 2-3 years. (Save €270 per annum)
7. Fit a lagging jacket - lagging your hot water cylinder will keep the water hotter for longer and pay for itself in 2-3 months.
8. Don’t overfill your kettle - only boil as much water as you need.
9. Fit thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) to your radiators.
10. Support renewable energy initiatives in your community.

The energy calculator can calculate how much energy you and your family use and how much carbon dioxide you produce. For a 2 people household in an apartment CO2 production is very little production.