State's Drought Calls for Californians to Take Action

SACRAMENTO, Calif., June 19, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- With the state in a severe drought, Energy Upgrade California™ is launching a campaign to educate Californians on how saving water can also save energy to make sure we have both the water and energy needed for the future. Developed in partnership with Save Our Water, the multimedia campaign will be seen by millions throughout the state.

Saving water and energy is especially important during the summer as high temperatures and dry weather have historically translated into higher demand for air conditioners and sprinklers, putting a strain on our water and energy systems. Exceptional drought gripping the state this year makes saving water and energy even more imperative for California.

"Not many people know that energy and water use are linked. We know it takes energy to operate air conditioners, but it also takes energy to use water in your home," said Michael R. Peevey, President of the California Public Utilities Commission. "Water-related energy use accounts for about one-fifth of the state's total electricity demand. Energy is needed to treat, pump, and convey water to your home. And, of course, it takes more energy to heat the water for showers and appliances within your home. Energy is also needed to treat wastewater once it leaves your residence." 

Energy Upgrade California's campaign is focused on simple steps Californians can take at home to better manage both energy and water, including:

• Take shorter showers (five minutes or less): A five-minute shower can use up to 25 gallons less water than a 10-minute shower or a bath. And since you won't be heating as much water, you'll save energy too.
• Install low-flow showerheads: By refitting old showerheads with WaterSense®-labeled models, you can save 2,900 gallons of water per person annually.
• Run washing machine with full loads using only cold water: With most washers, your clothes will be just as clean as in hot water, and since you are not heating the water, you will use less energy.
• Turn off the water while brushing your teeth: Your family can save up to 3,000 gallons a year. Letting your faucet run for 5 minutes uses as much energy as leaving a 60 watt light bulb on for 14 hours.
• Repair leaky faucets and toilets promptly:  A faucet that leaks 60 drips per minute wastes more than 3,153 gallons per year.

Energy Upgrade California is here to help. Californians can visit EnergyUpgradeCA.org to find rebates on energy and water efficient appliances and more ways to save energy and water. Consumers can also look for offers from their local water agency or utilities that may provide discounted or free low-flow showerheads or aerators or even rebates. Lastly, Californians can also follow Energy Upgrade California on Facebook and Twitter to continually learn about energy management, upcoming events, contests, and more.

Governor Brown has called on all Californians to reduce their water use by 20 percent and prevent water waste – visit SaveOurH2O.org to find out how everyone can do their part, and visit Drought.CA.Gov to learn more about how California is dealing with the effects of the drought.

Energy Upgrade California™ is a state initiative to help Californians take action to save energy and conserve natural resources, help reduce demand on the electricity grid, and make informed energy management choices at home and at work. It is supported by an alliance of the California Public Utilities Commission, the California Energy Commission, utilities, regional energy networks, local governments, businesses, and nonprofits to help communities meet state and local energy and climate action goals. Funding comes from investor-owned utility customers under the auspices of the California Public Utilities Commission.

SOURCE Energy Upgrade California