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Issues: Oil & Energy

Improving Appliance Efficiency

Numerous economic and environmental benefits can be realized if our nation makes energy efficiency a top priority when building, buying and operating electric appliances. The greater the collective efficiency of our appliances, the lesser the emissions of air pollution harmful to human health and to the climate. Improved appliance efficiency also curbs a host of problems associated with extracting, processing, and transporting energy resources, saves consumers billions of dollars, and spurs industry to be technology leaders, enhancing global competitiveness. This index collects NRDC documents outlining policies and practices that will promote appliance efficiency.

Power Supplies: A Hidden Opportunity for Energy Savings (pdf, 1.1 mb)
May 2002
Computers, televisions, cordless telephones, and many other appliances that plug into wall outlets use "power supplies" -- devices that convert the AC current of wall outlets into lower-voltage DC current -- that are far less efficient than they could be.

Out with the Old, in with the New (pdf, 619 k)
November 2001
This NRDC white paper focuses on maximizing energy savings with the replacement of old refrigerators and room air conditioners.

"Energy Efficiency Opportunities: Why Aren't They Realized in the Marketplace?"
October 2001
A presentation before the National Academy of Sciences from NRDC's David Goldstein.

"Conservation and Energy Efficiency"
June 2001
Testimony presented by NRDC's David Goldstein before the Subcommittee on Energy and Air Quality, Committee on Energy and Commerce, U.S. House of Representatives.

"Appliance Efficiency Standards"
July 1996
Testimony presented by NRDC's David Goldstein before the House Commerce Committee's Subcommittee on Energy and Power.

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last revised 2.7.03