Wind Turbine Generators

The new 3 Rs are part of ThePower Pledge campaign, developed by the Ontario Power Authority, and supported by WWF-Canada, to encourage Ontarians to take simple, meaningful actions on energy conservation.

At home, at work or at play, it's important to rethink how we use electricity, to replace inefficient electricity-guzzling appliances and to reduce the amount of electricity we use.

"By acting on our Power Pledge commitments, we can all save money and help our environment," says Colin Andersen, Ontario Power Authority CEO. "We calculate that a family taking just a few of these actions could save approximately $300 a year and reduce up to 600 kg of greenhouse gas emissions."

Small acts can make a big difference. For example, Ontarians who take The Power Pledge between April 7 and August 31 will not only lower electricity use, they'll also earn 20 Bonus AIR MILES reward miles. Plus an additional 10 AIR MILES reward miles will be donated to a participating charitable organization of their choice, such as WWF-Canada.

The Power Pledge

By taking The Power Pledge Ontarians commit to at least one of the following six power saving actions:

• Reduce phantom power – use power bars with auto-shutoff. (Reduce your home's electricity use by as much as 15 per cent by unplugging home electronics and appliances that use power even when they are turned off.)

• Purchase ENERGY STAR-rated appliances and products

• Take a home energy audit

• Retire old or secondary refrigerators and freezers

• Adopt smarter laundry practices such as washing in cold water in off-peak hours and hanging clothes to dry

• Adjust the thermostat a couple of degrees in winter and summer and taking care to maintain furnaces and air conditioners

The Community Challenge

Last summer, Ontario communities competed for top honours as the province's most conservation-conscious community by encouraging their residents to take The Power Pledge and reduce their electricity consumption on Community Challenge day. Eighty-three municipalities (representing about 56 per cent of Ontarians) took part. The 2010 Power Pledge Challenge Day is Wednesday, August 11. 

Conservation reduces electricity use, saves money, and helps protect the environment. You can find more information or take the Power Pledge online at www.powerpledge.ca.

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