Power-Mates now on stand-by at your local library

26 June 2009

Energy-conscious residents can now borrow a Power-Mate from one of the City of Sydney's eight libraries to measure the electricity, greenhouse gases and costs of running common home appliances.

Lord Mayor Clover Moore MP said the eco gadgets called Power-Mates connect between the appliance and the power socket to provide accurate measurements of energy consumption.

"These devices give people the ability to see for themselves exactly how much that TV, clothes dryer or microwave is costing each year," Ms Moore said.

"The Power-Mates will empower residents with knowledge about their consumption habits and encourage changes that will result in consuming less energy, producing fewer carbon emissions and saving money."

Tests undertaken by City of Sydney staff show that keeping a 32 inch LCD TV on stand-by costs $30 a year and produces 169kg greenhouse gas.

Keeping the microwave plugged in year-round will also set you back about $30 a year, while a 450L fridge costs about $173 a year to run and produces 967kg green house gas emissions.

If you're making a cup of tea or coffee, only boil the amount of water you need. Boiling two cups of water in a kettle produced about four grams of green house gas emissions while a full 1.7L kettle produces nearly 200 grams.

"There are simple but important changes people can make to reduce their energy consumption and save money, and these changes, including turning off appliances when not in use, will directly contribute to a more sustainable city," Ms Moore said.

Sustainable Sydney 2030 aims to reduce greenhouse gases and an important part of this reduction is in our workplaces and homes.

Power-Mates are available for loan from the following City of Sydney libraries: Customs House (Circular Quay), Glebe, Surry Hills, Haymarket, Kings Cross, Newtown, Waterloo and Ultimo.

Due to popularity, there may be a waiting list to borrow the devices.

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