New tool uses federal data to help homeowners cut energy costs

(InvestigateTV) — A new online tool helps homeowners identify where efficiency improvements can lower energy costs.

Environment America created a visual tool using federal data to show homeowners how energy efficiency changes can reduce energy use and costs.

“With this visualization we’re trying to paint the picture of how energy efficiency has made our lives better in our home,” said Johanna Neumann, senior director of the Campaign for 100% Renewable Energy at Environment America.

The tool uses animated maps, graphs and federal data to walk through how efficiency changes in common household systems and appliances can reduce energy use and lower costs.

Average household saves $286 annually

The tool shows households can save $286 annually through efficiency improvements. Neumann said if utility bills go higher, those savings increase as well.

Neumann said the average American household uses almost a third less energy than it did in 1980. She said policies and standards have helped drive many of those gains.

“The progress we’ve made and the bill savings that we’ve seen and the pollution reductions that we’ve seen have not been an accident. They’ve been a result of public policy. And, we need our leaders to continue it, prioritizing energy efficiency if they really want to reap the benefits that come from it,” Neumann said.

For people looking for more ways to cut costs at home, the U.S. Department of Energy’s Energy Saver website offers tips on heating and cooling, weatherization and choosing more efficient appliances.

The tool is available at environmentamerica.org by searching “energy efficiency.”