Saving Energy
Closer inspection of the reasons why appliances waste energy reveals 4 broad categories:
- Left on when not being used. e.g. computer in office.
- Left on standby deliberately i.e. inconvenient to switch off at mains socket.
- Left on standby due to forgetfulness/oversight.
- Inherent inefficiencies in appliance.
Existing electrical control products only cover point 2 above. The "Energy Egg" covers points 1, 2 and 3. Point 4 is currently being address by appliance manufacturers with energy rating certificates like the "Energy Saving Recommended" logo from the "energy Saving Trust" and the "Energy Star" from the EPA.
However, there is a need to reduce the energy consumption of electrical appliances not only when they are in standby mode, but also when they are completely switched on.
The technology should be advanced enough to tackle with the general habits of people like forgetfulness and ignorance towards the implications of leaving appliances on when not in use.
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