Bernie Crane

Communications Fellow

Happy Earth Day everyone! In this quick blog entry we wanted to share ways that clean energy technology is better for the environment and think about how it allows us to appreciate our planet a little bit more :).

Electric Vehicles 

Some Quick facts:

1. EVs emit less than half the greenhouse gases of gasoline cars, even when taking into account production and power grid usage.
2. Cars account for 16% of America’s greenhouse gas emissions, even without changes to our power sources, EVs could cut this number by more than 50%.
3. Over nearly a decade, the rise of electric vehicles and the resulting drop in on-road traffic emissions have helped prevent tens of thousands of premature deaths and saved the U.S. hundreds of billions each year in health and climate costs.

The Takeaway:  Cars are an important part of millions of Americans’ lives — we get that. So, when we have the option to choose a car that is better for the environment, for our finances, and for our fuel economy, EVs are the clear choice. Electric vehicles allow us to explore the winding roads of our beautiful planet without adding to air pollution already burdening millions. That is why EVs are good for the planet.

Solar Power

Some Quick facts:

1. Installing solar panels at home can make a real environmental impact—replacing the average household’s electricity use with solar is like planting 125 trees a year or avoiding 8,440 pounds of coal.
2. Solar drastically reduces air pollution. Widespread electrification and decarbonization of electricity could save $1.7 trillion in avoided climate damage and improved air quality.
3. Most homeowners will save $25,000 to $110,000+ over 25 years with solar. 

The Takeaway: So many of the world’s most beautiful moments are thanks to the sun: sunrises, sunsets, rainbows, and one of my personal favorite experiences—the first warm spring day with sunlight after a long, cold winter. Solar power gives us an even deeper appreciation for the sun because it allows us to power our lives in a way that protects the environment, reduces pollution, and is completely renewable, all while saving us money. That means more opportunities to take trips, enjoy more reliable energy, and truly appreciate the sun’s impact and beauty.

Heat Pumps 

Some Quick facts:

1. Heating and cooling make up about 60% of the emissions from the average home — but switching to a heat pump can cut your heating-related fossil fuel use by 40% or more.
2. For the average household, switching to a heat pump can reduce carbon emissions by around 2.8 tons each year.
3. Heat pumps are 2 to 3 times more efficient than most fossil fuel heating systems, so they use a lot less energy overall.

The Takeaway: This technology lets us enjoy those cozy or cooling moments without the negative environmental impact. Even when powered by non-renewable energy sources, heat pumps still benefit the climate. And when paired with renewable power, they provide an emissions-free way to stay comfortable after spending time outdoors.

Electric School Buses 

Some Quick facts:

1. ESBs have no tailpipe pollution, which means students, drivers, and the community don’t have to breathe harmful diesel emissions.
2. ESBs can work with local utilities to send power back to the grid when they’re not in use and the demand for power is high.
3. Retrofitting school bus engines significantly reduces children’s exposure to air pollution, leading to better respiratory health and improved test scores. ESBs can be a cost-effective way to boost student health and learning.

The Takeaway: Loud and polluting traditional school buses expose children to harmful pollutants that can impair their learning and contribute to the development of asthma from breathing traffic-related pollution. One of the joys of childhood is running around and exploring the outside world full of novelty. Electric school buses help us and our children enjoy a cleaner, less polluted world.