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development of renewable energy.

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What are the steps to energy efficiency?

With rising electricity and fuel prices saving money is the primary motive behind energy efficiency. Improving one’s carbon footprint is also a significant benefit.

More energy efficient technology, however, requires investment. The payback on the investment needs to be carefully worked out, taking into account not only the electrical savings and the financial benefits of the savings, but also the capital cost and the loss of income from the funds invested into the energy efficient technology. Generally, the payback on energy efficiency will significantly outperform the returns from the money if invested. 

More energy efficient technology, however, requires investment. The payback on the investment needs to be carefully worked out, taking into account not only the electrical savings and the financial benefits of the savings, but also the capital cost and the loss of income from the funds invested into the energy efficient technology. Generally, the payback on energy efficiency will significantly outperform the returns from the money if invested. 

The options are as follows:

Water Heating

Lighting

Appliances

Insulation

Heating /Air Conditioning

Solar Photovoltaic

In order of priority, the following steps should be considered based on the payback period of each:

Type of Technology

Typical Payback Period
(system dependent)

Anticipated Lifespan

Solar Water Heater

2 – 6 years

20 – 25 Years

Lighting (LEDs)

2 – 6 Years

10,000-15,000 hours

Insulation (if applicable)

2 – 10 Years

25 Years

Solar Photovoltaics

6 – 10 Years

25 Years +

Heat Pumps (domestic)

4 – 12 Years

15 Years

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