Tiny Steps Toward Significant Energy Conservation
Unlocking Benefits Through Small Energy-Saving Actions
Embrace substantial energy savings through minor yet impactful changes with ‘Small Actions for Big Energy Savings.’ Discover simple, actionable steps that lead to significant benefits, including cost reduction, environmental impact, and a more sustainable lifestyle.
Suggestions for a Modest Decrease in Energy Consumption: Six Easy Tips
1
Switch Off
2
Opt for Brief Walks or Cycling
3
Smart Cooking
4
Energy-Efficient Appliance Use
5
Economical Driving
6
Public Transportation
TIPS #1 - Switch Off
Whenever lights and electronic devices are unnecessary, I make it a habit to turn them off.
This simple practice is the cornerstone of energy efficiency.
By altering our routines, we have the power to positively impact the climate.
Consider these facts:
- Due to improper household habits, we may consume 30 to 40% more energy than necessary, leading to avoidable greenhouse gas emissions.
- Adjusting the room temperature up by just 1 °C in summer can result in a significant 6% reduction in energy consumption.
TIPS #2 - Opt for Brief Walks or Cycling
Cover distances of up to 5 km conveniently on foot or by bicycle.
Walking and cycling represent the most cost-effective and energy-efficient modes of transportation, positively impacting both health and well-being.
In 2017, Slovenians collectively traveled 2 million km by car for journeys under 5 km. According to SURS data, 12% of routes are less than a kilometer, 30% are under 2.5 km, and a significant 45% are shorter than 5 km – distances easily manageable on foot or by bicycle.
Fun Fact:
Switching from a car to a bicycle annually saves up to 900 million liters of fuel.
TIPS #3 - Smart Cooking
Opt for a microwave oven for heating food.
It consumes up to 4 times less energy compared to a gas stove.
Ensure efficient cooking by using a pot cover and a hob that matches the pot’s size.
Interesting Facts:
- The energy consumption of a freezer is influenced by the temperature difference with its surroundings. Placing it in a cooler area like the basement or garage is more energy-efficient.
- Turning off the oven 15 minutes before the end of baking and minimizing oven door openings can result in a 20% energy saving.
TIPS #4 - Energy-Efficient Appliance Use
The primary electricity consumers at home are the boiler, refrigerator, and freezer. Together, these devices account for almost 50% of the household’s total electricity consumption on average.
Leverage the EU energy label, a well-established tool aiding consumers for over 25 years in selecting energy-efficient appliances such as washing machines, refrigerators, televisions, and lighting.
For more information, visit the European Energy Performance Labeling (EPREL) public website.
Interesting Facts:
- Opt for a clothes drying rack instead of a dryer for energy conservation.
- Washing clothes with a water temperature of 30 °C is often sufficient.
- Set the water heater’s thermostat to a mid-range temperature to prevent accelerated limescale buildup and minimize heat losses.
TIPS #5 - Economical Driving
Adopting an economical driving style leads to decreased fuel consumption and subsequent cost savings.
Carpooling – Join forces for shared rides to cut costs and eliminate extra parking fees.
Interesting Facts:
- Driving at 100 km/h on the highway results in a 10 to 15% reduction in energy consumption compared to driving at 130 km/h.
- Operating the vehicle’s air conditioner can increase fuel consumption by up to 12%.
- In Slovenia, the average car occupancy per working day was 1.34 passengers in 2021.
TIPS #6 - Public Transportation
Arrange your weekend getaways utilizing public transportation.
Instead of choosing air travel for vacations, I explore more eco-friendly transportation options.
Fun Fact:
Until June 30, 2023, enjoy a 75% discount on all single tickets for intercity bus and domestic rail transport on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays.
ADDITIONAL INITIATIVES - ECO-FRIENDLY TRANSFORMATION OF APARTMENT COMPLEXES
Through modest or substantial investments, enhance the energy efficiency of your residence, minimizing energy consumption, cutting costs, and contributing to environmental preservation.
Engaging in a thorough renovation not only brings about long-term energy savings but also lessens the ecological footprint, elevates living standards, and safeguards property value.
Guidelines for an eco-conscious renovation of residential structures are available in our interactive presentation on sustainable home energy upgrades.