Yet we can do better. Plugging energy waste is not just a matter of personal finances. Each dollar saved by Las Vegas' residents, businesses, governments, and school districts means more dollars circulating in the local economy rather than paying for fuels and electricity imported into Las Vegas. The average home in the U.S. emits 25,000 lbs. of carbon dioxide annually through energy consumption. We can put our homes on a carbon dioxide diet while improving our comfort and saving money.
Greater savings are readily achievable with a little more effort and investment.
This is already happening in Las Vegas. New homes have been built that use a fraction of the energy of conventional construction. Many homes and businesses have been weatherized. New appliances on the market are two to several times more efficient. High-performance windows, superinsulation techniques, and optimum use of solar heating and lighting are being increasingly used.