Our society is continually advancing and technology is taking over every industry and aspect of our lives. But the technology that we depend on daily has the potential to either benefit the planet or contribute to its slow painful death.
Luckily, there are many technological sectors, industries, and companies that are leading the way in smart energy. But what is smart energy?
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That’s a big question. But essentially, smart energy is a better, healthier, and more efficient way of powering our homes, our businesses, and our cities. It’s all about doing more good than harm and reversing many of the problems our planet faces today.
Are you interested in smart energy and how you can use it to lead a more sustainable lifestyle? Then here are 10 things you need to know.
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1. What Is Smart Energy?
First and foremost, it helps to have a clear understanding of smart energy; what it is, how it works, and why it’s important.
Smart energy is bigger than any one industry. It includes things such as renewable energy sources like solar power or wind power.
It also includes more efficient technology, so that the tools and appliances we use every day waste less energy than ever before. This includes innovations like LED lighting, smart thermostats, and higher quality insulation.
But for energy to be smart, it also needs to be affordable so that it can benefit the entire planet, not just the world’s elite. So how consumers receive, use, and pay for energy is a factor of smart energy as well.
And lastly, it also encompasses how connected everything is. The internet and satellite technology allow seamless global connectivity. And this can work for the benefit of the planet by connecting what matters in our homes and cities.
2. LED Lighting
One of the easiest smart home energy solutions is LED lighting. Older lightbulbs, usually incandescent, waste a lot of energy and don’t last very long.
So you have to spend more money over time replacing these bulbs and spend more money each month to power them. Plus, they produce a lot of heat, which can potentially be dangerous.
LED bulbs, originating in the 1960s, produce much brighter light and use a fraction of the energy to power them. On top of that, they don’t produce any heat and they last for many years.
So while they cost a bit more upfront, they save money over the course of many years. Those interested in investing in smart energy should start with LED lighting in their homes for a quick win that makes a difference.
3. Solar Power
One of the most powerful smart energy decisions is to invest in solar power. Over the last decade, the cost of solar power has plummeted, as technology has improved and demand has increased.
Increased demand allows manufacturers to produce much more equipment for less money, due to economies of scale. And contrary to what many people think, you don’t have to live somewhere sunny and warm to benefit from solar power. In any state in the US solar power can make a difference, even when it’s cloudy.
Solar power is the definition of renewable energy. It can power homes and businesses completely from the rays of the sun, which are guaranteed to arrive daily.
4. Home Design
There is a smarter way to design homes in order to prioritize energy efficiency. There are many factors to consider, so it’s best to work with architects and contractors who specialize in designing and building efficient homes.
Factors to be aware of our window placement, to avoid excessive sunlight entering and heating the home, which requires more air conditioning to cool down in the summer. It can also mean using skylights to light the home with indirect sunlight, so you don’t have to use lights during the day.
4. Home Materials
On top of the way a home is designed, the materials chosen have a huge impact on energy efficiency. Certain roofing materials will provide better insulation than others.
They can also reflect sunlight away from the home rather than absorb it. Ceiling and wall insulation materials can prevent energy loss throughout the year.
5. Cleaner Transportation
Considering the transportation industry is the largest producer of greenhouse gases, and ultimately pollution, this is a major consideration for smarter choices. As consumers, we have many smart options.
We can invest in a hybrid or all-electric vehicle if we depend on cars as our primary means of transportation. Check out some smart energy reviews to decide on the best car for you.
Or for those who live in large cities, it could mean utilizing public transportation. And of course, we can all ride our bikes a little more.
6. Wind Power
Wind power is growing across the country. Wind turbines convert the wind’s kinetic energy into electricity without any emissions. More and more wind farms are being constructed to meet the electrical demands of our country, both onshore and offshore.
7. Smart Cities
Smart cities are those leading the way in connectivity and sustainable development. The goal is to improve life for city residents while prioritizing efficiency. Some of the many examples could be efficient, fast, public transportation, the creation of bike lanes and trails, and citywide bike rentals.
8. Increased Connectivity
The need for software and hardware across all aspects of life to be seamlessly connected is also vital. For example, wearable technology sends important data to healthcare providers. Or streetlights transmitting data to city departments that can work to make cities safer and more efficient.
Greater connectivity depends on reliable software. Those developing smart energy software need to also invest in quality testing before launch. Check out https://www.qualitylogic.com/2021/01/22/10-of-the-top-software-testing-companies/ for the top testing companies.
9. Smart Businesses
Businesses need to be leading the way when it comes to smart energy. If you are a business owner, it’s up to you to add to your companies mission to prioritize sustainability and implement smart energy solutions.
10. DIY Smart Energy
And there are many DIY projects that can help you create a more sustainable home and personal life. This could include collecting rainwater. Or it might mean gardening to generate your own food.
Smart Energy Is the New Standard
As our society continues to advance and grow, it’s up to us to invest in smart energy to power our planet. What is smart energy? It’s our lifeline, our only chance at saving our planet before it’s too late.
And we all share in the responsibility; consumers, business leaders, and innovators alike. We all have choices to make and can all contribute to a smarter world.
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