Just found a neat site. Mother Earth News published an article describing a project to cut the energy use of a household (heat, electricity, transportation) by half. They don't just talk about doing it, but they actually do it and report the results. If you like graphs and data see this link. If you want to see the top 8 projects then see this link. The bottom line seems to be that hey reduced their energy use by 63% without any lifestyle changes. Below are 8 projects, costs and payback. Wow!!
| The Top Eight Projects | Initial Cost | Savings per Year | Energy Reduction per Year | CO2 Reduction per Year |
| Personal Computer Power Management | $20 | $178 | 1,780 kWh | 3,560 lbs |
| Install Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs | $50 | $117 | 1,170 kWh | 2,340 lbs |
| Seal and Insulate Heating Ducts | $20 | $75 | 940 kWh | 480 lbs |
| Reduce Infiltration Losses From House (Seal Leaks) | $50 | $156 | 1,980 kWh | 1,010 lbs |
| Vent Dryer to Inside During Winter | $5 | $63 | 630 kWh | 286 lbs |
| Insulate Windows With Bubble Wrap | $38 | $75 | 960 kWh | 490 lbs |
| Eliminate Phantom Electrical Loads | $70 | $57 | 570 kWh | 1,140 lbs |
| Use an Electric Mattress Pad | $125 | $186 | 2,320 kWh | 1,150 lbs |
| Totals | $378 | $907 | 10,350 kWh | 10,456 lbs |
As I have found with wood pellets, insulation, CFLs and the like, there is low hanging fruit everywhere.
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