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The Impact of an Energy Efficient Equipment Policy

Equipment such as appliances, office equipment, consumer electronics, and other hardware comprise a significant proportion of electricity use – and plug load is the fastest growing sector of electricity consumption in buildings [1]. Such equipment is frequently and easily replaced. Local governments can adopt a Premium Energy Efficiency Equipment Policy to purchase only energy efficient products. This mandate will minimize the environmental impacts of energy generation, and reduce electricity bills.
 
Likewise, retrofitting a building’s water fixtures is relatively low-cost and easy to perform. Reducing the flow rate of fixtures saves on hot water heating, and reduces the energy used in water treatment, distribution and wastewater conveyance. Additionally, improving water efficiency will help BC communities adapt to climate change, which is predicted to bring lengthier droughts in many areas of the Province [2].

Community Examples

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[1] Suozzo, Margaret. Energy-Efficient Office Equipment. American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy.
[2] The Province of British Columbia. (2008). Climate Action Plan. http://www.livesmartbc.ca/attachments/climateaction_plan_web.pdf