Unit 6: (6.13) Energy Conservation

energy conservation

finding ways to use less energy or to use energy more efficiently

thermostat

a device that responds to temperature changes in order to maintain its set position. It can be lowered in the winter to conserve energy (less natural gas combustion in furnace)

energy efficient

is the goal to reduce the amount of energy required to provide products and services. For example, insulating a home allows a building to use less heating and cooling energy to achieve and maintain a comfortable temperature.

battery electric vehicles

a type of electric vehicle (EV) that uses chemical energy stored in rechargeable battery packs. BEVs use electric motors and motor controllers instead of internal combustion engines (ICEs) so they do not require gasoline..

hybrid cars

vehicles that have both an electric motor and an internal combustion engine, increasing fuel efficiency. Breaking system charges the battery that powers the electric motor, so they do not have to be plugged in to charge.

mass transit

Transportation system designed to move large numbers of people along fixed routes. Far more efficient than single-passenger vehicles.

green buildings

A structure that minimizes the ecological footprint of its construction and operation by using sustainable materials, using minimal energy and water, reducing health impacts, limiting pollution, and recycling waste.

fuel economy

the relationship between the distance traveled and the amount of fuel consumed by the vehicle (mpg)

peak demand

The greatest quantity of energy used at any one time. Often late afternoon to early evening when people are getting home. Requires additional nat. gas power plants to supply excess electricity demanded

smart grid

an efficient, self-regulating electricity distribution network that accepts any source of electricity and distributes it automatically to end users. Can coordinate use of appliances, heating, and cooling as well to manage demand and try decrease peak demand

green roof

roof covered in vegetation - helps combat heat-island effect, reduce storm water runoff, and provides habitat for native organisms

heat island effect

Warmer temps are experienced in urban landscapes due to dark surfaces with low albedo that absorb sunlight & release it as infrared radiation (heat)