Be Green!

Energy Conservation: From the Zoo to Your Home

Energy Conservation: From the Phoenix Zoo to Your Home

The Phoenix Zoo is an organization that strives to conserve resources! The new Arthur L. "Bud" Johnson and Elaine V. Johnson Animal Conservation Center, that was unveiled April 9, 2007, was built with a low impact on resources in mind. Decorative walls were made from recycled concrete from an old Zoo exhibit, and installation was done largely by volunteer groups, such as local Boy Scout troops.

In addition, SRP has donated a 10- kilowatt solar power system on the Conservation Center to offset its energy usage. The system (valued at more than $125, 000) was funded by SRP's EarthWise Energy Program, which encourages customers to pay a small premium above their monthly electric bill to fund renewable-energy projects.

You Can Also Conserve Energy within Your Own Home
Try these ten simple tips to cool you down!

1. Close your curtains during the day to keep heat out.
2. Adjust your thermostat. By increasing the thermostat by one degree in the summer and decreasing it one degree in the winter, you can cut ten percent off of your electricity bill.
3. Replace light bulbs with compact fluorescent lights. They use up to 75 percent less electricity.
4. Turn off computers, printers, copiers, etc. when not in use.
5. Put lids on pans while cooking.
6. Only wash full loads in the washing machine and dishwasher, and avoid using the dry cycle on the dishwasher.
7. Use a slow cooker – it doesn’t add heat to the house while cooking.
8. Newer models of washing machines, and most detergents, can effectively clean clothes in cold water.
9. Use an outdoor barbeque grill instead of the oven during warm months.
10. Turn your water heater thermostat down to 120 degrees.