Energy Meters Will Help Nova Scotians Monitor Electricity Use
Nova Scotians can now measure their electricity use in real time.
Beginning today, Oct. 24, energy meters are available on loan at all public and Nova Scotia Community College libraries in the province. Most household appliances can be plugged into the meter to measure their electricity use.
"This device helps Nova Scotians monitor their energy use and take better control of their energy costs," said Richard Hurlburt, Minister responsible for Conserve Nova Scotia. "By making these devices available at public libraries, we're helping more people make small changes to save energy."
Energy saving tip booklets will also be given to each borrower. The booklets contain hundreds of energy savings ideas for households.
"Public libraries are playing a role in educating Nova Scotians about their personal energy use patterns," said Jennifer Evans, provincial librarian. "This program is just one example of the varied and innovative services provided by today's public libraries."
The meters are designed to measure energy use in watts and translate the information into the cost paid by the consumer. The loan program is designed to help consumers understand their energy use by showing how much electricity their appliances consume in real time rather than on a utility bill. Using the energy savings booklet, householders can adjust their habits to use less energy and save money.
The meters can also help measure standby power, or the electricity used when appliances are turned off. For instance, televisions, stereos, and DVD players all draw power if left connected to an electrical outlet. Householders should connect these electronic devices to a power bar which can be switched off to cut the current when not in use.
The meters are available at all 77 public and 14 college libraries in the province. More information on the energy meters is available at www.conservens.ca/meter .