Energy Awareness Month FAQs
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1. When did we start observing October as Energy Awareness Month?
We first set a side a time to remind us about saving energy in 1981 with American Energy Week, which was observed from 1981 through 1985. It became a month-long observance at the Department of Energy in 1986. On September 13, 1991, President George Bush proclaimed October as Energy Awareness Month. Since then, the U.S. Department of Energy has been conducting energy awareness campaigns that promote the wise and efficient use of our nation's energy.
2. Why should federal agencies promote energy awareness?
Our nation can benefit from the wise use of energy at federal facilities. As the single largest domestic user of energy, the federal government spends more than $9 billion to power its vehicles, operations, and approximately 500,000 facilities throughout the United States. Efficient energy management at federal facilities:
- Saves taxpayer dollars
- Reduces greenhouse gas emissions
- Protects the environment and natural resources
- Contributes to our national security
In addition, regulations like the Energy Policy Act of 2005 require federal agencies to meet a number of energy and water management goals. Other more recent Presidential Executive Orders and Directives state that "the federal government should set a good example of conservation by reducing its own energy use."
3. How do I plan an energy awareness campaign for my facility?
The Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP) offers guidance on planning a campaign. For example, FEMP published Creating an Energy Awareness Campaign: A Handbook for Federal Energy Managers to provide guidance for planning, designing, and implementing a custom program, along with how to evaluate and report on results.
4. What are popular ways to promote energy savings during Energy Awareness Month?
There are many ways to promote energy savings. For example, one simple way is to publicize energy saving tips via handouts, newsletters, emails, and other means. You can also display posters carrying energy-saving reminders in hallways and other high traffic areas. Find out about more ideas on activities promoting energy savings by checking out the ENERGY STAR® website and the Design and Implement the Program chapter in FEMP's Handbook for Federal Energy Managers (PDF 1.2 MB).
5. How can I promote wise energy use practices at a military installation, where many residences are maintained?
FEMP provides a guide specifically for promoting wise energy use practices for military housing. In the Revised Handbook for Promoting Behavior-Based Energy Efficiency in Military Housing (PDF 2.0 MB), you'll find details on successful energy efficiency campaigns at military installations.
6. What materials are available for promoting Energy Awareness Month?
FEMP offers a limited supply of a variety of Energy Awareness Month promotional materials such as posters and bookmarks. And high-resolution print files are available so you can print ample quantities of your own materials.
7. How can I promote energy awareness yearlong?
Visit FEMP's You Have the Power (YHTP) website for more ideas on educating federal personnel about saving energy. The YHTP campaign is an outreach campaign created to honor, inspire, and encourage federal leadership. The program also recognizes outstanding accomplishments of Federal Energy Champions.