5-Step Energy Action Plan
for Cape & Islands Residents*

This action plan is about new thinking and new habits at home, in the store, at work, on the road, and in the yard. Take the steps outlined below, use the Comments feature to describe your experiences, and we’ll acknowledge your commitment.

1. Count costs, set goals, and get started. Calculate your energy use, assess your carbon footprint, schedule a comprehensive energy audit, tell friends and neighbors what you’ve done, and encourage them to act. Visit the Cape & Islands Energy Information Clearinghouse for audit information.
2. Make efficient purchases. Use the Energy Star and Fuel Economy buyer’s guides and take advantage of efficiency incentives to satisfy needs and wants at home, on the road, and at work.
3. Further reduce your energy and carbon footprints. Use your vehicles and plan your trips wisely, keep your tires inflated, and practice car-free travel. Reduce, reuse, and recycle. Visit farmers’ markets and patronize locally owned businesses.
4. Support renewable energy. Use efficiency-related savings to purchase green power through Cape Light Compact Green, a National Grid GreenUp Provider, the New England Wind Fund; buy biodiesel fuel or bioheat through the Self-Reliance Oil & Bioheat Cooperative; and invest in renewable energy systems.
5. Call for action. Participate in public forums, ask government officials how they are going green, and give your elected and appointed representatives clear signals.

*This initial, qualitative Regional Energy Action Plan (REAP) plan is only a start. Eventually, a quantitative REAP for Cape & Islands Residents is to be created consistent with the following long-term goals relating to energy independence, economic development, and climate change:

• Generate sufficient renewable energy in the Cape & Islands region to meet 100% of net electricity needs by 2020
• Reduce direct use of fossil fuels for heating and transport applications in the Cape & Islands region by 50%, relative to 2006 consumption, by 2020

These regional goals were established by representatives from businesses, environmental advocacy groups, regional and state agencies, business associations, educational and research institutions, and nonprofits participating in a “Beyond Cape Wind” visioning session organized through the Cape & Islands Renewable Energy Collaborative. Click here for more information on the “Beyond Cape Wind” stakeholder process.