Energy Savings
Charlotte's trees reduce heating and cooling costs.
The Challenge Costs and demand for energy are rising, with heating and cooling accounting for approximately half of residential energy bills (Department of Energy 2015). Charlotte's hot climate exacerbates this energy need. The Solution Trees provide energy savings by reducing cooling and heating costs through shade and emissions of moisture. In fact, the cooling effect of one healthy tree is equivalent to 10 room-sized air conditioners operating 20 hours a day (North Carolina State University 2012). The shade of properly-placed trees can save homeowners up to 58% on daytime air conditioning costs, while mobile homeowners can save up to 65% (Smith 1999). Charlotte's tree canopy saves its residents and business owners an estimated $15 million each year in avoided cooling costs. The map below shows how many energy-saving benefits trees currently provide throughout the greater Charlotte area. |
Charlotte's tree canopy saves its residents and business owners an estimated $15 million each year in avoided cooling costs. |