[Archived] City of Alexandria Celebrates Energy Awareness Month

For Immediate Release: October 5, 2021 

Join the City of Alexandria in celebrating Energy Efficiency Day on October 6, and Energy Awareness Month throughout the month of October. Energy Awareness Month highlights opportunities for residents and businesses to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) and their impact on climate change by sustainably using energy resources at home, at work and when making transportation choices. 

During Energy Awareness Month, residents and businesses are encouraged to visit the City’s Climate Change & Energy website to learn more about the City’s programs and initiatives to improve energy efficiency and reduce GHG emissions from City buildings, vehicles and operations. Find resources to help save money and improve the energy efficiency of your home or business, including: 

• low or no-cost home energy assessments to identify the biggest opportunities for energy efficiency improvements; 
• rebates and incentives for energy-efficient appliances, heating and cooling systems, and hot water heaters;  
• tips and tricks to reduce “vampire” electricity, which refers to the way electric power is consumed by electronic and electrical appliances while switched off or in standby mode, or improve the comfort of your home, including weatherizing your home to reduce cold-air drafts; and, 
• considerations when electrifying your home or business’s heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) or hot water heating system. 
• information about preparing your home or business to install a solar energy system.

Being energy efficient also extends to transportation choices. Consider how walking, cycling or taking public transportation can save money, reduce energy consumption and positively impact our environment. If you own or are considering purchasing an electric vehicle, learn more about the City’s strategies to support expanding electric vehicle charging infrastructure in Alexandria and throughout the region. 

The City recognizes that there is a global climate emergency and all levels of government and the public have a role to play in addressing climate change. The City’s process to update to the Energy and Climate Change Action Plan (ECCAP) will support Alexandria’s response to climate change effects and environmental emergencies. The ECCAP also aligns with the City’s Environmental Action Plan 2040 for ongoing energy and GHG emission reductions and climate change actions.   

Visit alexandriava.gov/Energy for more information. 

For inquiries from the news media only, contact Andrea Blackford, Senior Communications Officer, at andrea.blackford@alexandriava.gov or 703.746.3959.