Energy Efficiency and Conservation Flashcards
6 cards from real Energy and Utilities practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Energy Efficiency and Conservation flashcards as text
What is 'combined heat and power' (CHP) or cogeneration?
Answer: Simultaneously generating electricity and capturing waste heat for useful purposes at one facility
CHP systems capture heat that would otherwise be wasted in electricity generation, using it for space heating or industrial processes, achieving overall efficiencies of 70–80%.
What does 'EER' (Energy Efficiency Ratio) measure for air conditioning units?
Answer: Cooling output in BTU/h divided by power input in watts at a standard test condition
EER measures an air conditioner's cooling efficiency as the ratio of cooling output to electricity input at a specific test condition (95°F outdoor temperature).
What is 'time-of-use' (TOU) electricity pricing?
Answer: Rate structure with higher prices during peak demand hours and lower prices during off-peak hours
TOU pricing reflects the actual cost of electricity at different times, incentivizing customers to shift discretionary loads to cheaper off-peak periods.
What is 'commissioning' in the context of a new commercial building?
Answer: Verifying and documenting that building systems are installed and performing as designed
Building commissioning is a quality assurance process that verifies all energy systems (HVAC, lighting, controls) function correctly together as designed.
What does 'LEED certification' indicate for a building?
Answer: The building has achieved a green building rating for sustainability and energy performance
LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is the most widely used green building rating system, recognizing buildings that meet standards for energy, water, and environmental performance.
What is 'weatherization' as applied to low-income household energy efficiency programs?
Answer: Adding insulation, sealing air leaks, and improving heating systems to reduce energy bills
Weatherization assistance programs (like DOE's WAP) improve home energy efficiency by insulating, air sealing, and upgrading heating systems to lower low-income families' energy burdens.