Are you fooled by these common energy misconceptions?

Energy Efficiency is the same as Energy Conservation.
False. Energy efficiency is the use of technology that requires less energy to perform the same function. Energy conservation is any behavior that results in the use of less energy. A light emitting diode (LED) bulb that uses less energy than an incandescent light bulb to produce the same amount of light is an example of energy efficiency. The decision to replace an incandescent light bulb with a LED is an example of energy conservation.

As long as your appliance or device is turned off, it will not use energy.

FaEnergy Efficiency KillAWatt meterlse. Phantom load is the term given to an appliance or device that is plugged into an outlet, but still consumes energy when turned off. Appliances or electronics with digital displays or chargers are examples of devices that continue to use energy when plugged into an outlet. Use a Kill-A-Watt® meter to measure “in use” and “standby power” to see if your appliances/devices are guilty of this, and if so, be sure to unplug them after each use.

petroleum imports graphic
The majority of imported oil to the U.S. comes from Saudi Arabia.
False. Canada provides the largest percentage of imported oil to the United States.

LWind energy graphiceave the fan on to keep your home cool when away.
False. Fans circulate the air, but do not actually cool the air of the room. Fans are beneficial if you were to sit in front of one, but leaving a fan on when not in the room wastes energy.

 

West coast states generate more solar energy than east coast states.Solar energy graphic
False. While California is the largest generator of U.S. solar energy, New Jersey, North Carolina, Massachusetts, and New York all rank in the top ten for solar energy generation.