The difference between energy conservation and energy efficiency

Energy may be conserved simply by not using it, for example, by switching a light off. Energy efficiency, however, involves getting more value for the amount of energy used, for example, by replacing a normal light bulb with a low-energy light bulb (CFL). Many Irish houses, particularly those built before 1980, are very wasteful of energy. Various cost-effective energy saving opportunities exist which, through reducing fuel and electricity bills, can pay for themselves in a relatively short time.

The benefits of energy conservation

The implementation of energy conservation measures can:

• help save dwindling natural resources
• make the house warmer and eliminate cold draughts.
• improve the environment and reduce polluting emissions,
• provide employment;
• reduce Ireland's fuel imports bill and save your money.

Why to save energy and promote energy conservation?

Most of our energy currently comes from oil, coal, natural gas and peat. These resources are finite, and if we continue to use them at current rates, they will run out within a small number of generations. In the meantime, the burning of these fuels releases pollutants into the atmosphere, contributing to smog, acid rain and in the longer term climate change. By conserving energy in our homes, we can help to conserve fuel resources, promote a cleaner environment and to have more money in our pockets.

The promotion of energy efficiency is an activity, which is receiving increasing attention at Local, European Union and Global level. At all levels it is seen as a prime mechanism for the conservation of scarce energy resources and for environmental conservation. Energy conservation and efficiency received considerable boost from the two oil crises of the 1970s when oil prices increased dramatically. The crises demonstrated the insecurity of energy supply.

In more recent years, concern for our natural environment has replaced high oil prices as the impetus behind the promotion of energy conservation. Energy conservation is now seen as an effective way of helping to defeat the problem of carbon dioxide emissions which is seen as a major contributor to the so called "greenhouse effect", and to fight fuel poverty, which is described as "the inability to afford adequate heat in the home."

Domestic energy

It is sometimes claimed that a private home is one of the world's great energy wasters. It is estimated that a householder is responsible for 30% pollutants released into the atmosphere and the public is not very aware of this fact. Furthermore, the householders are mostly unaware that the energy they use in their homes is a major cause of global warming.

The raising of awareness with regard to domestic energy consumption has become an increasingly important factor in Energy Action's repertoire of activities to reduce the incidences of Fuel Poverty and to raise public awareness about energy conservation. It has been noted time and time again in surveys undertaken by Energy Action when visiting older people in their homes that there is very widespread ignorance as to how energy can be saved in the home. Energy wastage in the home is often caused by people's need to keep warm. Their inefficient usage of energy takes a number of forms, e.g.

1. Using a hot water tank as the source of heat in a room
2. Using cookers as a source of heat.

Energy Action has undertaken an ambitious round of public talks on "Energy Efficiency and Energy Conservation In The Home", making presentations in such places as the Ilac Centre, Dublin, Charleville Mall, Residents' Associations and Active Retirement Groups, local libraries etc. In addition, "Energy Saving Tips" leaflets are distributed to every householder receiving insulation services, as well as Advice leaflets for Senior Citizens on energy conservation, and alternative ways to keep warm.