It’s always so refreshing to see kids getting involved in their community.

Here is a quick article breaking down the U.S. government’s position on the laws behind light bulbs.

‘In February the Bloomberg administration announced they would allocate $702 million to replace light fixtures leaking toxic chemicals, known as PCBs in approximately 800 school buildings, as part of a broader energy efficiency effort over the next 10 years.’

Everyone good and confused? Ok, here’s the thing. I was reading the Vancouver Sun the other day, and these bulbs are arguably too efficient. They will also cause an increase in greenhouse gases. The writer explains the physics of his argument thusly: 

As we replace old-style “hot” light bulbs with efficient “cool” light bulbs, our thermostats will keep the furnaces on longer and more carbon dioxide will be released into the atmosphere.

Interesting, in any case.

Most of it is probably stuff all of you classy readers know about, but this part in particular I found interesting:

As living green becomes more ingrained in our lives, LED lighting will continue to light the way, according to Jeff Dross, senior product manager of Kichler Lighting, who will introduce several new under-cabinet systems and landscape products with an ultra-efficient technology next year. For a casual, contemporary twist, Dross also suggests hanging chandeliers in new areas such as bathrooms, bedrooms and closets, and embracing today’s art glass applications, which are much more chic and casual than the Tiffany lamps of the past.

In London, ON, there is a house that, believe it or not, puts that Griswold house to shame. It does it one better, and incorporates lights AND sound! When you get a chance, please check out the article in the London Free Press.

Here’s a snippet from the article on MoneyVille.ca: 

Householders who buy their electricity direct from utilities will see their monthly power costs decline by one to three dollars, starting Nov. 1. 

The Ontario Energy Board has eased prices slightly for consumers who don’t buy their power from energy retailers. 

Check out the article for more details, and what the savings will translate into for  your family.

You’re sick of it. but what’s a driver to do?

You could pick up an electric car at your local dealer ship, that’s one thing. Major automakers like Nissan have been rolling out new vehicles, and electric cars have been around for a while.

Read more.

Your home’s wiring should be up-to-date, and up to code. Oftentimes, with older homes, the wiring tends to be hidden. There are other cases where faulty wiring is glossed over with superficial treatments. 

An article on Boston.com presents another scenario: houses that are shown with great, new fixtures, but are missing on moving day.

Obviously, from a more pragmatic perspective, this is better. These bulbs aren’t too friendly to the environment. The compact florescent bulbs that are replacing them use 75 per cent less energy.

However, it ultimately represents a job loss. The greener bulbs are still being made, and can be done cheaper off-shore.