Most of the time we tend to think of landscapes in terms of beautification, but there is a more compelling reason to consider a properly planned landscape – lower energy bills.  It doesn't’t matter if you live in the city, the country, in the north or in the south, significant energy savings can be realized with appropriate placement of trees, shrubs and vegetated overhead structures.   In fact,  a well planned landscape is one of the best investments a homeowner can make.

According to the EPA, properly situated trees can lower energy bills by an average of 25%.  Amazingly, the air temperature under just one shade tree is up to 25% cooler than the surrounding air.

It’s easy to see how a correctly placed grouping would impact the energy use in your home during the summer.  In fact, the studies of air conditioning energy savings showed a whopping 15%- 50% savings and heating cost reductions ranged from 25% - 40% in the winter.  

Just think what that would mean nationwide in terms of energy savings.

Whether it’s saving money you are interested in, or saving the environment, or both, you can plan your landscape for energy efficiency  and pocket considerable savings in the process.

How is this accomplished?

• Energy efficient landscaping takes advantage from trees and structures to redirect energy flow from sun and wind around your property.
• With proper landscaping you can change the climate around your home.  Changing or creating a “micro-climate” around your home will greatly reduce heat loss during the winter and heat absorption in the summer.
• Carefully positioning proper windbreaks can save up to 25 percent household costs on average.  This can save the typical household from $100-$250 in heating and cooling every year. 

Each region has specific requirements for maximizing energy savings.

Sources:

US EPA

Colorado State Extension

Energy Savings Landscaping, Debra Rowe, Ph.D.

Other Articles You May Enjoy:


What is Sustainability?
Landscape Planning & Design
Steps for Planning Your Sustainable Landscape
Do-It-Yourself Design for the Green Landscape and Garden
Landscape Construction, Building Costs & Trees
Go Green Irrigation