Energy is everyone's business

Michael J. Rainger

2008-07-29 14:55:33

Fauquier County is literally split down the middle when it comes to electricity. NOVEC customers enjoy free “peak demand management equipment” along with many other effective energy-conservation equipment.

Dominion Virginia Power does not offer the same or similar products to its customers in the same county.

I have come to the conclusion that energy conservation is critical to buying us time to transition the economy to newer, sustainable technologies and platforms.

Personal commitment and accountability is critical to making a difference at the community level.

Las Vegas reduced its per capita water consumption by 18 percent over five years (2003-07) while accepting 400,000 new residents.

We each can and do make a difference.

Our household has started to make significant lifestyle and practical changes. Our average 12-month (NOVEC) grid-based electrical usage is down 11 percent. Our weekly gasoline consumption is down 18 percent in 2008. The mowed lawn on our two-acre property shrinks annually as we return selected areas to nature.

Our awareness of and commitment to sustainable environmental changes have increased dramatically due to educating ourselves and by becoming more involved in current events.

The time for personal action, accountability, responsibility, energy conservation and sustainable living concepts is now.

Michael J. Rainger

Broad Run