A recent report from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) details energy use within U.S. households. According to the data, space heating and cooling – known collectively as "space conditioning" – once accounted for more than half of electricity consumption in residential homes, but over the past few years that number has declined. 

In 1993, for example, 58 percent of the power used by a property was for heating and cooling. As of 2009, however, this had fallen to only 48 percent. While homeowners adopt more earth-friendly technologies – including better insulation and efficient windows – per-household energy consumption continues to steadily drop, reports the source. 

Instead, the numbers are shifting to non-weather related fixtures, which accounted for 52 percent of total use in 2009 compared to 42 percent in 1993.

"While energy used for space conditioning has declined, energy consumption for appliances and electronics continues to rise," states the press release. "Although some appliances that are subject to federal efficiency standards, such as refrigerators and clothes washers, have become more efficient, the increased number of devices that consume energy in homes has offset these efficiency gains."

Perhaps the most encouraging news of all is that even though homes built in the last decade are 30 percent larger than older houses, they use only 2 percent more energy, according to the EIA. This suggests that the green technology trend has held some weight over the years and will likely continue to do so. 

If you're interested in making eco-friendly upgrades to your property, it may actually be more affordable than you think – and the long-term savings almost always make it worthwhile. To get started, contact a home inspection contractor to request an energy audit.