New Va. website offers energy-saving tips

The state has launched a website and educational campaign called Virginia Energy Sense to help consumers understand more about their energy use and encourage them to conserve.

The effort is part of a goal established by the General Assembly to cut the state's electricity consumption by 10 percent from 2006 levels in the next 12 years. State agencies have estimated that such a reduction would postpone the need to build four to five new power plants and could save consumers between $200 million and $700 million, according to the website, www.virginiaenergysense.org.

The website allows consumers to track their energy use and earn rewards from retailers for decreasing it. The State Corporation Commission is overseeing the website and the awareness campaign, which will include advertisements and community outreach events.