Energy Smart campaign saves dollars and the environment

9/02/02
A State Government campaign designed to help save householders money on energy bills, while at the same time reducing greenhouse gas emissions, has been launched today.
Energy Minister Eric Ripper said the Energy Smart campaign would run from February 9 to April 7 and was designed to provide the community with information and simple tips that would reduce energy bills.
"The campaign theme is 'It doesn't take a lot of energy to save money' and it will include radio, press and outdoor advertising," Mr Ripper said.
"We have formed alliances with electrical retailers in order to take the message even further - to the point of sale of key energy using appliances.
"During this campaign Harvey Norman and Retravision stores across the State will carry information brochures covering issues such as choosing the right airconditioner, hot water system, heater and other appliances."
One of the keys to energy efficiency is having appliances that suit the use patterns or needs of the household - for instance, air-conditioners that are too big waste power, but if they are too small for the house, they run on high and burn even more energy without cooling satisfactorily.
Mr Ripper said research showed that an average household could save at least 10 per cent or $90 a year by insulating and using energy efficient lighting.
"And just as importantly, if each household reduces its energy usage by just one per cent across the State, that would save a total of $4.5million in energy bills and 45 thousand tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions," he said.
"This is the equivalent saving of greenhouse gas that would be achieved by removing 10,000 cars from WA roads."
Mr Ripper said the summer Energy Smart campaign, with its unique alliance with electrical goods, was a pilot program designed by the Sustainable Energy Development Office. A winter campaign would run in June.
Separate Government and business campaigns were also being developed.
"The Government supports the community's desire to protect our environment," the Minister said.
"These campaigns will help reinforce the message that saving power saves the environment as well as the family budget."
More information about energy saving ideas can be found on the website http: http://www.sedo.energy.wa.gov.au or by calling the Hotline on 1300 658 158.
Minister's office: 9222 8788