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October is National Energy Awareness Month. This year's theme is POWERING AMERICA; We're On Target.
Energy observance started in 1981 as American Energy Week then was extended to a month long observation by the Department of Energy in 1986. October was proclaimed as Energy Awareness Month on September 13, 1991 by President George H.W. Bush and then revitalized and proclaimed again in 2009 by President Barack Obama as National Energy Awareness Month.
Each year to celebrate energy awareness,the Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP) through the Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy (EERE) and the Department of Energy (DOE) provide materials and ideas to promote energy-saving practices at home, in the office, and in Federal facilities.
This year's theme POWERING AMERICA; We're On Target is intended to depict how, across the nation, Federal agencies continue to zero in on energy targets to stimulate the economy, lower operating expenses, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and achieve long-term energy and economic security.
According to their website:
"The Federal Government is pointing the way toward energy security and renewed economic prosperity. Investments in clean energy technologies are accelerating at an unprecedented pace. Replacing outdated vehicles with fuel-efficient hybrid and alternative fuel vehicles is transforming the Federal fleet and automotive infrastructure; procurement of efficient products is reducing energy demand; constructing, operating, and maintaining high-performance buildings is tapping the power of efficiency and renewables. Collectively, these efforts are expanding industries, creating jobs, and positioning America at the center of a global economy for sustainable energy."
If you're looking for tips on how to spread awareness, FEMP's frequently asked questions are helpful for getting ideas for energy awareness approaches and activities. Additionally, the U.S. Department of Energy's Energy Savers Consumers Guide offers tips on energy efficiency and renewable energy.
Although Energy Awareness Month is technically only October, FEMP offers campaign materials and messages year round as an easy, cost-free tactic to spread energy awareness. Current and past campaign materials are available for download or you can contact the EERE Information Center (877-337-3463) for more information.
