Most studies have shown that the cheapest means of reducing global warming is through conservation – cheaper than generating additional energy through wind or solar power. Many of the methods of reducing fossil-fuel use do not involve cutting-edge science. A recent study by the McKinsey & Co. concluded that the U.S. could cut its energy usage by 23% below its projected 2020 level by simply boosting energy efficiency. Other countries, primarily European, have mandated and subsidized such conservations steps.

If you have ever driven a hybrid car, you will recall that the dashboard included a monitor that displayed how many miles to the gallon you are getting at a particular moment. You could then make adjustments to maximize your efficiency. A recent study out of Oxford University has shown that direct feedback in combination with frequent, accurate billing is needed as the basis for sustained demand reduction. The norm is 5 to 15 percent savings, but with tabletop interactive cost and power display units the savings can be as high as 20 percent. You find yourself thinking more about electricity, if you are monitoring its usage.

Question #1. Are there currently any practical devices on the market that can show me how much electricity I am using in my home in real-time?

Answer #1. Yes. Recently, several, affordable devices have come on the market that enable you to easily determine what your real-time electricity usage is. One such device is called the Power Monitor and is made by Black & Decker Corp and sells for $99.00. Another similar device, Power-Cost Monitor is made by Blue Line Innovation and sells for $109.00.

Question #2. How difficult are they to install?

Answer #2. It is simple. You first loop a metal belt around the glass dome covering the meter. Then you align a sensor attached to the belt on top of the glass to read the data collected by your meter. The manufacturers say their products work with 90% of meters installed in North American. The digital monitor is then placed in one room or can be moved about the home. The monitors can then tell you how much electricity a single appliance is using or the entire home.

Question #3. Will these devices save me money?

Answer #3. Most of us are only aware once per month, when we pay our electrical utility bill what our energy usage is. By having the means to see what we are using in real time we are more likely to take measures to reduce our electrical usage, such as turning off lights during the day.

Energy Tip Of The Month.

There is currently a glut of natural gas. Natural-gas futures have fallen as much as 72% from a year ago. This month is an ideal time to fill-up your propane tank. I shop for propane on a regular basis, and generally Valley Energy in Purcellville has the lowest price for propane, but it varies from day to day so check around.

About the Author: Dale Schulz is the President of Schulz Homes, www.schulzhomes.com, and he has been building custom homes in our area since 1987. He also is the president and founder of Virginia Renewable Energy which retrofits existing homes with renewable energy systems, such as solar electric panels and wind turbines. You can contact him as well as send your questions for future columns to dale@schulzhomes.com. Schulz Homes phone # is 540.687.3367.