Energy Matters

PEC is working to support an energy system that is smarter, more efficient and better accounts for the negative externalities arising from the choices we make about energy consumption, generation, transmission and distribution.

We are advocating for a more distributed system that is less reliant on distant generating sources and incorporates a mix of local renewable power — customer owned, community based and utility scale. Recognizing Virginia is in the early stages of its energy transition, we believe now is the time to reimagine and rebuild our energy system in a way that is just and fair to all residents and ratepayers.

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suburban home with solar panels

Is Your Home Wasting Energy?

A home energy audit can be a very good investment, particularly if you have an older home …
Phantom Electricity Video

Kill the ‘Phantoms’

Electronics and miscellaneous appliances are the second largest category of home electricity usage — nearly $200 for the average household. “Phantom power” or situations where these devices are using electricity even when you think they …
Installation of fiberglass batt insulation

Add a Blanket

Upgrading your attic insulation can dramatically reduce your heating and air conditioning costs, improve the value of your home, and add to your day-to-day comfort. While this project may cost you $200 or more, once …
| | EnergySmartSolutions Steps
Insulating Attic Hatch Video

Insulating Your Attic Door or Hatch

In most homes, the attic door or hatch, is a framed plywood square in the ceiling of a hallway or bedroom, with no insulation above it. Without insulation, it is like having an open door …
| | EnergySmartSolutions Steps
LED lightbulb and packaging

Light Right

The average household dedicates about 5% of its energy budget to lighting every year, with much of the cost owing to the few lights that are on the most. So switching those frequently used bulbs …
| | EnergySmartSolutions Steps
solar install at PEC office

It’s Not Just for Homeowners

The ten energy efficiency improvements outlined on our website make sense for more than just homeowners …
Dial it Back a Notch

Dial it Back a Notch

Your appliances are wonderful modern conveniences — however for the average Virginia household there are significant energy costs. You can save 10% or more on these costs through two easy steps, without any appreciable effect …
Furnace Air Filter Video

Go With the (Air) Flow

Periodically replacing your air filter will significantly improve your heating and cooling system’s performance. When the filter is dirty, the fan uses more energy to force the air through. When the filter gets too clogged, …
Outlet

Defeat Drafts

The outer walls, ceiling, windows, doors and floor make up the “thermal envelope” of your house. Any gaps or holes in this envelope allow the conditioned or heated air inside your house to escape. When …
Solarize Piedmont 2021 campaign available in ten different localities

Solarize Piedmont 2021 campaign available in ten different localities

The Solarize Piedmont program is back through June 30 and available to homeowners and business owners in Albemarle, Clarke, Culpeper, Fauquier, Greene, Loudoun, Madison, Orange, and Rappahannock counties, and the City of Charlottesville. Solarize Piedmont …