27-06-2017, 02:33 PM
Energy conservation refers to reducing energy consumption by using less than one energy service. Energy conservation is different from the efficient use of energy, which refers to using less energy for a constant service. Driving less is an example of energy conservation. Driving the same amount with a higher mileage vehicle is an example of energy efficiency. Conservation of energy and efficiency are techniques of energy reduction. Conservation of energy is part of the concept of sufficiency.
Although energy conservation reduces energy services, it can result in increased environmental quality, national security, personal financial security and greater savings. It is at the top of the sustainable energy hierarchy. It also reduces energy costs by preventing the depletion of future resources.
Some countries use energy or carbon taxes to motivate energy users to reduce their consumption. Carbon taxes can allow consumption to shift to nuclear power and other alternatives that carry a different set of environmental effects and constraints. Meanwhile, taxes on all energy consumption can reduce overall energy use, while reducing a wider range of environmental consequences from energy production. The State of California employs a differentiated energy tax by which each consumer receives a basic energy allocation that has a low tax. As usage rises above that baseline, the tax is increasing dramatically. These programs aim to protect the poorest households, while creating a higher tax burden for high energy consumers.
The Petroleum Conservation Research Association (PCRA) is an Indian government agency created in 1977 and dedicated to promoting energy efficiency and conservation in all walks of life. In the recent past, PCRA has carried out mass media campaigns on television, radio and print media. A third-party impact assessment survey revealed that because of these mega PCRA campaigns, the general level of awareness has risen, leading to saving fossil fuels worth of rupees (Indian currency) in addition to reducing pollution. Bureau of Energy Efficiency is an Indian government organization created in 2001 responsible for promoting energy efficiency and conservation.