For some odd reason, I really enjoy the field of
energy efficiency. This is likely due to
a genetic defect that, in other people, would likely manifest as some form of
learning disabilities.
Energy efficiency can be complicated business.
As one small example, we can look at Total Resource Cost Testing (TRC
Testing). Posed as a simple question,
TRC Testing would read something like this: “Is
changing your light bulb a good investment?”
Sounds simple, right?
Well, power providers have found a way to make this
excessively complicated when they look at energy-saving measures. Part of the formula for TRC Testing involves
something called Net Present Value. Net Present Value takes into account an
asset’s worth at time zero. This value
must be weighed against the present cost of producing a kilowatt-hour, the
future projected cost of such (including inflationary figures), the energy
savings, etc.
Mind you, the above paragraph is only a small
portion of Total Resource Cost Testing.
If TRC Testing was illustrated as listening to music it might go
something like this:
You must begin by playing your favorite classical
piece on your preferred sound system. At
3 second intervals during the length of the entire song blast an air horn and
dance a bit of a jig. At random points
during the listening session, you must modulate the volume back and forth
between minimum and maximum. On
occasion, smack the speakers. Midway
through the song, find an open place and run around in a clockwise circle. Stop.
Run the same circle in reverse.
Near the very end of the piece, find two small children and have them
scream at you.
Not the same as just sitting there and listening to
the music, but you have measured the resource.
In conclusion, yes, please replace your light bulb
with something more energy-efficient.
--Mitchell
Hegman
Hilarious!
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