Gov. Murphy is telling people in NJ what temperature they should set their A/C thermostat – New Jersey 101.5

Energy Conservation Measures Urged by New Jersey Governor Amid Extreme Heat

As New Jersey faces soaring temperatures, Governor Phil Murphy has called on residents to adopt energy-saving practices to alleviate pressure on the state’s power grid. This initiative aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 13 (Climate Action).

Recommended Energy-Saving Actions

1. Set Air Conditioning Units to 76-78°F

Air conditioning accounts for approximately 12% of electricity consumption in U.S. households. By setting thermostats within the 76-78°F range, households can reduce energy use and lower utility bills by 1-3% per degree increase, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

• Approximately 88% of U.S. homes have air conditioning, with 66% using central systems.
• Adjusting temperature settings incrementally by one degree can optimize comfort and efficiency.
• This practice supports SDG 7 by promoting energy efficiency and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

2. Keep Blinds Closed

Minimizing direct sunlight indoors reduces heat accumulation, decreasing the need for excessive air conditioning use.

3. Unplug Electronics When Not in Use

Phantom or standby power consumption contributes to unnecessary energy use. Unplugging devices can save households between $100 and $200 annually.

• Home entertainment equipment typically accounts for 2.8% of household energy consumption.
• Smart plugs offer a balance by reducing standby power while allowing remote device control.
• This measure supports SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) by encouraging efficient energy use.

4. Delay Use of Heat-Producing Appliances Until After 8 p.m.

Appliances such as ovens, clothes dryers, and dishwashers consume significant energy and should be operated during off-peak hours to reduce grid strain during extreme heat.

5. Develop a Power Outage Preparedness Plan

Residents are advised to prepare contingency plans to ensure safety and comfort for all household members, including pets, during potential power outages.

• Check on neighbors and loved ones who may lack transportation or resources.
• This preparedness contributes to SDG 11 by enhancing community resilience.

6. Utilize Official Cooling Centers

Residents can call or text 2-1-1 to locate state-authorized cooling centers, providing safe refuge during extreme heat events.

• Information is sourced from official emergency management authorities.
• Access to cooling centers supports public health and well-being, aligning with SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being).

Conclusion

Governor Murphy’s energy conservation recommendations during New Jersey’s heatwave exemplify a commitment to sustainable energy use and climate action. By adopting these measures, residents contribute to multiple SDGs, including affordable and clean energy, responsible consumption, sustainable communities, and climate resilience.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
   • The article focuses on energy conservation by urging households to reduce electricity consumption, especially air conditioning use, to ease strain on the power grid.
2. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
   • Encouraging energy-saving behaviors and planning for power outages contributes to resilient and sustainable urban living environments.
3. SDG 13: Climate Action
   • Reducing energy consumption helps mitigate climate change impacts by lowering greenhouse gas emissions associated with electricity generation.
4. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
   • Providing information about cooling centers and planning for heat-related emergencies supports health and safety during extreme heat events.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs Identified

1. SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
   • Target 7.3: By 2030, double the global rate of improvement in energy efficiency.
   • Target 7.1: Ensure universal access to affordable, reliable, and modern energy services.
2. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
   • Target 11.6: Reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management.
   • Target 11.5: Reduce the number of deaths and the number of people affected by disasters, including power outages during extreme heat.
3. SDG 13: Climate Action
   • Target 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters in all countries.
   • Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning.
4. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
   • Target 3.d: Strengthen the capacity of all countries for early warning, risk reduction, and management of national and global health risks.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. Energy Consumption Indicators
   • Percentage of household electricity used by air conditioning (article states 12% of household electricity in the U.S.).
   • Percentage of homes with air conditioning (88% nationwide) and those using central systems (66%).
   • Utility bill savings from raising thermostat settings (1-3% savings per degree increase).
   • Energy saved by unplugging electronics (estimated $100-$200 savings annually).
2. Power Grid Strain and Outage Preparedness
   • Frequency and duration of power outages during heat waves.
   • Number of households with plans for power outages and access to cooling centers.
3. Health and Safety Indicators
   • Availability and usage rates of official cooling centers (via 2-1-1 service).
   • Number of heat-related illnesses or deaths during extreme heat events.

4. Table: SDGs, Targets and Indicators

Source: nj1015.com