Published: February 08, 2009 - 07:49 PM
Fairfax Digital has reported that the very thing that we use to keep us cool in this time of global warming, the domestic reverse cycle air conditioner, is responsible for the largest increase in greenhouse gas emissions.
Fairfax reported that on January 29 when the temperature in Victoria peaked into the mid-40s, Victorian electricity suppliers were pumping 53000 extra tonnes of greenhouse gasses into the atmosphere that day.
Domestic air conditioners were responsible for the majority of the increase.
The price of electricity is generally $20 to $40 an hour, but on January 29, with the use of air conditioners resulting in a 30% increase in power use compared to a typical 30 degree day, the price of electricity was as high as $10,000 per megawatt hour. These electricity spot price increases that are levied by the electricity generators must be paid by the Victorian electricity companies that supply households and businesses. The ultimate cost is borne by the consumer.
Alison Walter of ShopAround.com.au said that in these times of extreme weather Victorian consumers can take a number of steps to try and limit their consumption and keep their electricity bills under control.
"There is a number of ways to save money on your electricity bill. If hot days are expected make sure you shut the house up and keep all blinds and windows closed. When you use the air conditioner, set the temperature to 23 or 24 degrees rather than 21. It will still make the house very comfortable and you will save money compared to a normal electricity bill. And remember, if at the end of the day you are not happy with your electricity supplier, make the choice to go and switch to a new supplier and compare Victorian electricity suppliers on ShopAround.com.au."
« Back to article list
Related Links
Share this article