Last week, the Obama administration announced an aggressive new plan that would reduce the carbon dioxide emitted by the United States by a full 30 percent by the end of the year 2030. Although the specifics of the plan still have to be worked out – and will vary from state to state – Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) chief Gina McCarthy told reporters that the key to making this project successful would be the use of energy-efficient technology.

McCarthy said that there would be an increased emphasis on not only reducing the amount of greenhouse gases that are released into the atmosphere from existing power plants, but also using the power that they consume in smarter ways. In order to achieve the 30 percent reduction goal that the administration has set for itself, there will need to be better use of renewable energy and low-carbon technology. She said that homeowners can do their part by investing in Energy Star-rated appliances.

"Frankly, when we looked at it, what we really began to realize was the value of efficiency," McCarthy said on Thursday, June 12 at the annual Energy Efficiency Forum. "The biggest bang for the buck, by far … is efficiency," she said. "It's getting the waste out of the system from the power plant to the plugs."

If you live in Maryland, you can find out how your home can use power in better ways by scheduling an energy audit with home inspection company Alban Inspections! Be sure to browse the rest of our website for more detailed information on the services that we have to offer to our customers.