Although many parts of President Barack Obama's Climate Action Plan will not take effect for at least a few more years, the administration has already taken some immediate steps to help the country improve how it consumes energy. Earlier this week, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced new standards that would help furnace fans become more energy-efficient. This move is designed to help Americans save on their annual utility bills as well as their impact on the environment.

According to numbers released by the DOE, residential furnace fans consume roughly 1,000 kilowatt-hours per year, releasing carbon dioxide into the atmosphere while keeping homes cool or warm. The new standards set forth by the federal agency seek to reduce the combined amount of carbon emitted by 46 percent over the next 15 years. The DOE says that by the year 2030, homeowners will have saved a combined $9 billion on electricity payments, as well as cut carbon emissions by 34 million metric tons.

"These standards help Americans save money by saving energy while also protecting the environment. The Energy Department will continue to develop standards that move the U.S. closer to its low carbon future, while also protecting our kids' health and slowing the effects of climate change," U.S. Energy Secretary Ernest Moniz said in a public statement.

Energy efficiency is going to be important for homeowners in the future, as a way to both help protect the environment and reduce monthly energy payments. If you are a Maryland resident interested in knowing how you can improve your own home's power consumption, be sure to schedule an energy audit today with leading home inspection company Alban Inspections!