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This will help decrease the dependence on electricity generated from fossil fuels, plus provide your own electricity and greater resilience should the network be impacted by weather or other events.
Solar panels, essentially, “crowdsource” electricity and ensure there is sufficient capacity in the grid when there is insufficient water for hydro, wind to propel turbines and gas stocks are low – as has been the case in August 2024.
These are very efficient in terms of electricity. If these are teamed up with solar panels you could, in effect, have very cheap heating and cooling.
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Electric Vehicles
If you have a plug-in electric-vehicle (EV) of any kind, ensure that you have enough solar panels to cover the charging of it, and charge it during the day. Charging overnight runs the risk of using fossil-fuelled generation to charge your vehicle – at the very least charging it during the day with solar will not divert renewable resources off the national grid which could be used elsewhere.
Planning a holiday?
If you go overseas for an annual holiday – go every second year instead. Air travel emits hydrocarbon exhaust directly into the (upper) atmosphere – help decrease this form of emissions.
Slow down
Drive a bit slower. Driving at 80kph will save more than 20% fuel than driving at 100 kph on the open road and only add about 10% of time on the journey (your average speed is actually not that different).
Driver technique and vehicle maintenance (tyre pressures, etc) also effects fuel consumption considerably – learn how to drive efficiently.
For more information, see NZTA Time and Fuel effects of different travel speeds
Downsize your vehicle
Downsize your petrol or diesel vehicle, which will use less fuel.
Alternatively, sell your vehicles (fossil or lithium fuelled) and use public transport or a bike.
Public Transport
Carpool or ‘carshare’ with workmates, neighbours, friends, family.
Use existing public transport wherever possible.
Walking
Walk or bike to work/school, instead of using a/any vehicle.
Have a ‘walking bus’ to bring your children to school, sports and other events.
Cycling
Bike one, two or three days a week instead of using a vehicle.
Image Credit: Unsplash
Image Credit: Unsplash