Technology and energy efficiency (pg 227-230)

How does energy waste link to climate change?

The world’s energy consumption has increased drastically and when we waste electricity it affects the climate. A large proportion of this energy comes from fossil fuels such as coal, oil and gas and this has led to a global increase in CO2 emissions.

We use many electrical devices that are always plugged into sockets. They are still using electricity even if they are on standby. This means more electricity is being used than necessary. What is a solution to this? How?

Smart plugs

They can be turned on or off automatically at set times to reduce energy waste. This can be done remotely from your phone so you can easily control it

What are zero-carbon homes? How can they help to reduce the amount of greenhouse gas emissions?

They are houses that do not increase the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

They do not use fossi. fuels to provide heating and electricity. They are well insulated, often have solar panels. thermal heat pumps and even glass that generates electricity

How can we make lights more energy efficient?

• Using LED bulbs. Incandescent lights are inefficient.

MGO level energy regulation law example. How does it help?

EU energy efficiency regulation

• Companies are required to put the EU energy label on their products (e.g fridges) based on their energy efficiency

• It encourages consumers to choose the most energy efficient option.

Why would companies want to make things more energy efficient? Why would customers choose the more energy efficient option?

• More marketable

• Customers save money in the long run