Energy Efficiency Day

What the day is

Energy Efficiency Day, often shortened to EE Day, is observed on the first Wednesday in October. It is an awareness day about getting the same comfort, light and work from less energy. The day moves with the calendar, so it always falls between October 1 and October 7.

Its message is practical rather than abstract. Using energy more efficiently lowers utility bills, reduces pollution and supports jobs in building, manufacturing and installation. Energy analysts sometimes call efficiency the first fuel, because the cheapest and cleanest energy is often the energy that never has to be produced.

Origin and background

The day began in 2016 as a joint effort of dozens of energy efficiency advocacy groups in the United States. They include the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy, the Alliance to Save Energy, Advanced Energy Economy, the Natural Resources Defense Council and several regional energy efficiency organizations. The first national event drew more than 175 official supporters, and by 2021 nearly 900 governments, universities, companies, utilities and organizations were taking part. Many of them issue proclamations, run bill-saving campaigns or share tips on the day.

Some of the best-known tools came out of earlier efforts. The Environmental Protection Agency launched the voluntary ENERGY STAR label in 1992 to help buyers spot efficient products. LED lighting, which the Department of Energy says uses at least seventy-five percent less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and lasts many times longer, has since become the default choice for most homes.

At home, heating and cooling usually account for the largest share of energy use, which is why sealing air leaks, adding insulation and servicing equipment tend to pay back the most.

How to take part

• Swap any remaining incandescent or halogen bulbs for LEDs, starting with the lights you use most.
• Seal gaps around doors and windows with weatherstripping or caulk, and check your attic for thin insulation.
• Set a programmable or smart thermostat to ease heating and cooling when nobody is home.
• Look for the ENERGY STAR label the next time you replace an appliance, and ask your utility about rebates.
• Request a home energy audit from your utility or a local contractor, which pinpoints where a particular house loses energy.