Easley, Michael. Press Release, 2007-04-19, Gov. Easley Offers Earth Day Energy-Saving Tips; State Energy Office Provides No- And Low-Cost Ways To Become More Energy Efficient

Michael F. Easley Governor State of North Carolina Office of the Governor For Release: IMMEDIATE Contact: Renee Hoffman Date: April 19,2007 Phone: 919/733-5612 GOV. EASLEY OFFERS EARTH DAY ENERGY-SAVING TIPS State Energy’ Office Provides No- and Low-Cost Ways to Become More Energy’ Efficient RALEIGH - Gov. Mike Easley today encouraged citizens to use energy resources more efficiently to help preserve the environment and save on energy costs as the nation prepares for Earth Day 2007 on April 22. Energy efficiencies implemented for Earth Day can and should be continued throughout the year. “Being more energy efficient does not mean sacrificing comfort or convenience,” Easley said. “There are many simple things a consumer can do for little or no money that will make a big impact on energy bills, sometimes even cutting those bills by nearly half.” The State Energy Office of the N.C. Department of Administration offers these no-cost tips for reducing energy use this spring and summer: • Use full washer loads when washing clothes or dishes, and use the air-drying cycle instead of the heat-drying cycle. When possible, avoid drying clothes during the hottest hours of the afternoon. • Secure windows tightly to prevent air conditioning loss, and use shades and blinds to keep the sun out, especially on south- facing windows. • Use ceiling fans when a room is occupied. • Do not set your air conditioner thermostat at a colder setting than normal when you turn on the unit. It will not cool your home any faster and, if you forget to change the setting, can result in excessive cooling and unnecessary energy consumption. • Turn down the temperature of your water heater to the warm setting (120 degrees). Place your gas water heater on “vacation” mode or turn off your electric water heater when you leave town for extended periods of time. • Stop aggressive driving. You can improve your gas mileage by up to five percent around town if you avoid “jackrabbit” starts and stops by anticipating traffic conditions and driving gently. The following low-cost measures can also help save money: Governor's Press Office State Capitol. Raleigh, NC 27603-8001 (919) 733-5612 - Toll Free 1-800-662-7005 FAX (919) 733-5166