NSW Premier Nathan Rees and Deputy Premier Carmel Tebbutt launch the Save Power campaign
It's easy not to think about electricity at home, work or down at the local sports club – we turn on a switch and its there – so we often use more power than we need to. That's why the Department of Environment and Climate Change NSW has launched a major energy efficiency campaign encouraging the community to Save Power
By saving power at home, work and play, you'll be saving money on bills, too. You'll also be helping to protect the environment. Most electricity in NSW is generated by coal-fired power stations, which means the power you use at home produces carbon pollution (unless you have GreenPower or other renewable sources).
What can you do in your world?
The Save Power campaign uses a black balloon to represent 50 grams of carbon pollution – the average NSW house produces 160,000 black balloons every year. The Save Power website shows you how to rate your household's energy use and take simple action to reduce it.
What can you do in your world?
These actions will make a big difference to the planet and to your hip-pocket. You can switch off appliances and electrical equipment at the wall, get rid of your second fridge (and maybe even earn $35 from the buyback scheme), or simply have a shorter shower.
While the three-year campaign encourages householders to reduce their electricity use, it will also be expanded to support businesses and community organisations to Save Power. The Sustainability Advantage and Energy Efficiency for Small Business programs also encourage businesses large and small to reduce their environmental impact and save money (see Helping business save money and energy).
With electricity prices rising, power is becoming a precious commodity that we can't afford to waste. Visit savepower.nsw.gov.au and see what you can do in your world.