Misdirection of Energy Policy

I am continually disappointed at the direction of our energy independence policy. So much of our directives are pointed to new and innovative methods of energy production. We demand so much energy, it is no wonder that our energy costs are skyrocketing while we sit and complain and do very little on our end to curtail the consumption. While the industry looks to increase production, very little is being done to reduce consumer demand. And we as manufacturers are responsible for their consumption. Just look at the plethora of digital picture frames that were on the market for this holiday season. Averaging 10 watts of continual consumption apiece. Not to mention all of the growing electronic products charging almost continually. It used to be that the largest sector of energy in residential applications was lighting. And although I am working on providing solutions to curtail that portion. More and more electronic manufacturers are increasing the number of rechargeable and seemingly innocuous consumer products to increase our ease of living without regard for electrical grid demands.

However, in my opinion the largest and most inefficient consumer products that have made very little progress since the 1950s are the appliance industry. Now granted they have made some strides to reduce the amount of energy to wash and dry our clothes, refrigerate and cook our foods and heat our water. But the advances that have been made in that arena are minimal compared to the rest of the more visible consumer products. The technology in the appliance industry is still very much the same technology that we have always used. Even microwave ovens are consuming 500-1500 watts. It's no wonder that solar panels are not effective in covering the total residential energy demand. Heating coils (i.e. resistors) and compressors demand large quantities of energy. Think your fridge is efficient? Stick your hand down behind it next chance you get and feel the heat being displaced. Passive cooling and food packaging changes are drastically needed. As well as investment in nanotechnology for clothing. Even the most efficient front load appliances are still well out of the reach of the majority of consumers.

Consumers: Take time to walk around and count. Motion sensored light switches are probably the most cost effective and easiest method besides changing your lights. And remember to turn off your computers and VCR/DVD. Better yet, put timers on your outlets to cut non-essential power to extraneous appliances in your home. You will be surprised at the difference it makes.

Manufacturers: Include auto shut off functions in your electronic products. It is not a big investment on your part. And educate your customers.

Remember, it is all of our responsibility.