Home Energy Efficiency
US-China Greener Consumption Forum
March 22, 2013
About ecobeco
• Founded in 2008 to provide independent residential
energy-efficiency consulting and services.
• #1 in Home Performance Program in Maryland by volume
in 2011.
• Awarded 2010, 2011 & 2012 Angie’s List Super Service
Award, Rockville’s Outstanding Leadership in
Environmental Protection Award, and the Century Club
Award from Home Performance with Energy Star.
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Comprehensive Home Energy Audit
An instrumented, scientific assessment of a home’s
energy use.
Quick Home Energy Check-up
A quick visual inspection to help people identify ways
to save energy.
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Easy Energy Savers
 Faucet aerators and efficient flow
showerheads can reduce water
consumption by 50%.
 Smart Power Strips save up to
$40 per year reducing phantom
power (stand-by) loss.
 Insulating water heater tank wrap
and pipe wrap.
 Compact fluorescent light bulbs
(CFLs) use 75% less energy.
 Programmable Thermostats can
save $75 a year.
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Average Home Energy Use
Space
Heating
Appliances
and
Lighting
24%
Electric &
46%
A/C 8%
Water
Refrigeration
Heating
5%
17%
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U.S. Department of Energy
Whole Home Approach
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Energy Saving Programs
with Utility Companies
• In Maryland, law requires a 15% reduction in
electricity use by 2015.
• Small surcharge on every electricity bill to fund
programs.
• Companies work under contract with utility.
• Programs include:
• Appliance rebates & recycling; HVAC rebates
• Home Energy Audits
• Insulation & Air Sealing rebates (up to 50% or
$2,000 per house)
• In-store discounts on Energy Star lights, and more!
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Demonstrate Savings
Keys to Success:
 Calculate the value of the service.
 Demonstrate the $ value of home efficiency.
 Advocate for subsidized programs.
 Convince key leaders programs are worthwhile.
 Keep whole-home approach in mind.
 Insulation without air-sealing isn’t very effective.
Ecobeco’s Success:
 2,000 Comprehensive Home Energy Audits
 11,000 Quick Home Energy Check-ups
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Seal Air Leaks
Air sealing a house can save $100-500 per year.
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Proper Insulation
Proper Insulation can save $100-500 per year.
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Indoor Air Quality
Protect families from Carbon Monoxide and other air quality issues.
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Proper Air Exchange
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An Energy Efficient Home
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Resources and Links
Information on utility programs:
Pepco - http://www.pepco.com/energy/conservation/meiin/
Organize, Educate & Advocate for energy efficiency programs!
Efficiency First - http://www.efficiencyfirst.org/about/
American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy http://aceee.org/topics/energy-efficiency-programs
Home Energy Audits:
Home Performance http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?fuseaction=hpwes_profiles.sho
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