Alabama Power offers energy-saving tips ahead of extreme cold temps – WBRC 6 News

Energy Conservation Report: Alabama Power’s Cold Weather Energy-Saving Initiatives

Introduction

In response to the forecasted coldest temperatures of the season by the First Alert Weather Team, Alabama Power has issued a set of energy-saving recommendations aimed at helping residents manage energy consumption efficiently during the cold snap. These measures align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG 13 (Climate Action), by promoting responsible energy use and reducing environmental impact.

Energy-Saving Recommendations

1. Lower the Heat

   Residents are encouraged to set their thermostats to the lowest comfortable temperature and reduce settings further when away or asleep. This practice reduces the energy demand caused by large temperature differences between indoor and outdoor environments, thereby supporting SDG 7 by enhancing energy efficiency.

2. Keep the Cold Out

   Utilizing natural sunlight by opening blinds during the day and closing curtains at night helps retain heat indoors. Additionally, keeping garage doors closed prevents heat loss and cold air intrusion, contributing to energy conservation efforts.

3. Low-Cost Upgrades

   Implementing simple home improvements such as sealing gaps with caulk or weatherstripping, using door draft stoppers, and placing rugs on cold floors can significantly reduce heat loss. These measures support SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) by improving housing quality and energy efficiency.

4. My Power Usage Tool

   The Alabama Power mobile app offers the “My Power Usage” feature, enabling users to monitor daily energy consumption, compare usage over time, and receive personalized alerts. This digital tool empowers consumers to make informed decisions, advancing SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) through technology adoption.

5. Support Programs for Winter Energy Management

   Alabama Power provides assistance programs such as the anonymous “Energy Assistant” quiz to connect customers with energy savings options and flexible billing plans. The “Rate Advisor” tool helps match consumers with optimal rate plans based on their energy habits. These initiatives promote SDG 1 (No Poverty) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) by supporting vulnerable populations in managing energy costs.

Additional Resources

• For further energy-saving tips, residents can visit the Alabama Power Winter Savings Website.
• News alerts and updates are available through the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
• Subscription to the email newsletter can be made here.

Conclusion

Alabama Power’s proactive energy-saving guidance during the cold weather period exemplifies a commitment to sustainable energy use and community support. These efforts contribute directly to multiple Sustainable Development Goals by promoting energy efficiency, reducing environmental impact, and assisting consumers in managing energy affordability.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
   • The article focuses on energy-saving tips and tools to manage energy use efficiently during cold weather, which aligns with ensuring access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy.
2. SDG 13: Climate Action
   • By promoting energy conservation and efficient heating practices, the article indirectly supports efforts to combat climate change and its impacts.
3. SDG 1: No Poverty
   • The article mentions support programs and assistance options for managing power bills, which relates to reducing poverty and ensuring access to basic services.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs

1. SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
   • Target 7.1: By 2030, ensure universal access to affordable, reliable and modern energy services.
   • Target 7.3: By 2030, double the global rate of improvement in energy efficiency.
2. SDG 13: Climate Action
   • Target 13.3: Improve education, awareness-raising and human and institutional capacity on climate change mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction, and early warning.
3. SDG 1: No Poverty
   • Target 1.2: By 2030, reduce at least by half the proportion of men, women and children living in poverty in all its dimensions according to national definitions.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. For SDG 7 Targets:
   • Indicator 7.1.1: Proportion of population with access to electricity (implied through efforts to manage energy use and access to energy-saving tools).
   • Indicator 7.3.1: Energy intensity measured in terms of primary energy and GDP (implied by promoting energy efficiency through heating management and low-cost upgrades).
   • Use of the “My Power Usage” tool and mobile app to track daily energy consumption provides data that can be used to measure energy efficiency improvements.
2. For SDG 13 Target:
   • Indicator 13.3.1: Number of countries that have integrated mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction, and early warning into primary, secondary and tertiary curricula (implied through awareness and education on energy saving and climate action).
3. For SDG 1 Target:
   • Indicator 1.2.1: Proportion of population living below the national poverty line (implied through assistance programs like Energy Assistant helping vulnerable populations manage energy costs).

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: wbrc.com