A new analysis puts Utah seventh in the nation overall for its energy efficiency, coming in at fifth place in the country for home energy efficiency and ninth for vehicle fuel efficiency.
High-efficiency air conditioning and heating are key.
“In other words, get a high-efficiency HVAC system for the home if you currently have a system that is old or inefficient (ideally one that needs to be replaced soon anyway). Make sure to get a programmable thermostat. This will reduce wasted heating/cooling when you are not at home. Simpler items: install more insulation and seal leaks. This will reduce heating and cooling costs and can cut energy loss by 25-40%,” noted Betty Simkins, a professor at Oklahoma State University and Russell Simkins, a retired energy consultant.
“This can have a return on investment of up to 100%, depending how under-insulated the home is. Install energy-efficient windows and exterior doors, especially if the current ones are old. This option can be expensive. Buy Energy-Star certified appliances.”
The findings by WalletHub also note the importance of having efficient transportation systems.
“While there are some steps you can take to become more energy efficient on your own, living in the right area can give you a big boost. For example, certain states have much better public transportation systems that minimize your need to drive, at least in big cities. Some places also have better constructed buildings that retain heat better during the winter or stay cooler during the summer,” said Chip Lupo, WalletHub analyst.
Utah Transit Authority and efficiency
For multiple years, Utah Transit Authority has been named one of the best public transportation systems in North America. The analysis puts Utah in the No. 23 spot for transportation efficiency.
The American Public Transportation Association noted at one time UTA experienced record high use.
The association described its awards as “given to those individuals and organizations that have made outstanding contributions to the public transportation industry in North America. Winning an APTA Award means that you are ‘the best of the best’ and a distinguished leader.”
In April this year, U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy took a ride on FrontRunner, accepting an invitation by Sen. John Curtis, R-Utah. He was also accompanied by Rep. Celeste Maloy, R-Utah.
Duffy noted the efficiency of FrontRunner, saying it is a model for other states to follow that want to improve transit systems.
Curtis emphasized he plans to expand the FrontRunner because of population growth in the state as well as Utah’s upcoming Olympics in 2034.
There are also plans to build a rapid bus transit system that links Murray, Taylorsville and West Valley City. The planning for that system goes back nearly 20 years.
Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah, joined by Rep. Burgess Owens, R-Utah, introduced the Safe Transit Accountability Act in September.
It would ensure public transit agencies can implement safety plans without delay caused by internal disagreements. It proposes to clarify the chain of command within local transit agencies to resolve disputes as quickly as possible to ensure riders and transit employees are safe.
The new report by WalletHub emphasizes the importance of energy efficiency, given the amount of money spent by households on energy costs.
Energy is one of the biggest household expenses for American consumers. The average U.S. family spends at least $2,000 per year on utilities, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, with heating and cooling of spaces alone accounting for about half the bill.
It noted that the Department of Energy estimates that adopting energy efficient measures in the home could reduce a family’s utility costs by as much as 25%.