The Oil Drum: Local

We talk a lot here on TOD about the big picture international supply and consumption issues, which is important and necessary. But today I'd like us to start thinking about local solutions. I'm thinking of stuff that does not rely on Federal or State level action/funding. Think of actions that either you can take or that you can lobby for in your local community. I think many of the local solutions not only help reduce energy usage, but could also improve quality of life and improve health.

As a resident of Manhattan's Upper East Side, a very densely populated area where very few people own cars, I'm focusing mostly on building infrastructure for alternate transportation (walking, cycling, etc), local food markets, energy efficiency and raising awareness.

I recently discussed how I lowered my electric bill from 8KWh/day to just 4.7KWh/day using simple easy to implement techniques, such as using Compact Fluorescent Light (CFL) bulbs for versus Incandescent bulbs for lighting. Here's why CFL lighting makes so much common sense for your wallet and sustainable living.

Overall Importance of Lighting and CFL
According to the US Department of Energy (DOE), lighting accounts for one quarter of electrical demand in the US at a cost of $37 Billion a year. DOE says CFLs "are the most significant lighting advance developed for homes in recent years," and that their "energy savings and superior longevity make CFLs one of the best energy efficient investments available."