Ever since Edison invented the light bulb, Americans use of electric power has trended upward. And with American homes increasingly plugging in technology that requires power—cell phones, iPads, DVRs, to name a few—you would think the opposite would be true.
But according to experts, over the next decade, residential power use is expected to fall. According to the Electric Power Research Institute, from 1980 to 2000, residential power demand grew by about 2.5% a year. From 2000 to 2010, the growth rate slowed to 2%. Over the next 10 years, demand is expected to decline by about 0.5% annually.
The change is due in part to the use of more efficient types of lighting, and electric devices getting much more efficient. Another factor might be that new homes are being built to use less electricity, and owners of older homes are taking advantage of government subsidies for home energy savings programs. The tough economy may also be prompting people to use less power.
If you are looking to be part of the energy efficiency trend, remember that Oak Electric offers consumers a number of energy-efficient solutions, including solar panel systems and wind power installations.
Oak Electric Service is one of southeast Michigan’s leading electrical and renewable energy contractors. If you are contemplating making energy improvements to your home, give us a call at (800) 964-7070. We invite you to visit our website at www.oakelectric.com to learn more about us and our renewable energy solutions.
