Expansion Management

Have You Thanked Your Washing Machine Lately?

Aug. 7, 2009

Well you should. According to The Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM) your washing machine is doing a heck of a job. It has reduced its energy 64% since 2000. And its capacity has increased by 9%.

Refrigerators are doing their part as well. They are over 30% more efficient than their 2000 counterparts. And refrigerators are on a continuous improvement program as well. In 2008 they used 3% less energy than in 2007.

For an interesting comparison, the average refrigerator sold today uses less energy than a 60 watt light bulb that is left on 24 hours a day says the AHAM.

And since these appliances are doing so much for the environment, the U.S. government thinks they can help the economy as well. On July 14th, the DOE gave $300 million in funding to the Energy Efficient Appliance Consumer Rebate Program, which will be administered through state energy offices for the purchase of ENERGY STAR appliances.

The money comes from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.

About the Author

Adrienne Selko Blog | Senior Editor

Focus: Expansion Management & the Biotech & Life Sciences Industries

Email: [email protected]

Follow Adrienne on Twitter: @ASelkoIW

Call: 216-931-9235

Senior Editor Adrienne Selko manages IndustryWeek’s Expansion Management, delivering ideas and information about how successful manufacturers leverage location to gain competitive advantage. She explores the strategies behind why companies located their headquarters, research institutes, factories, warehouse and distribution centers and other facilities where they did, and how they benefit from the decision.

Adrienne is also the editorial coordinator of the IndustryWeek Expansion Management Roundtable events, which unites economic development professionals to network and discuss the latest trends in site location.

As well, Adrienne tells the stories of successful companies in the biotechnology and life sciences industries.

In the past, Adrienne has managed IndustryWeek’s award-winning website, overseeing eNewletters, webinars, and contributed content. Before joining the staff, Adrienne was managing editor of corporate publications at a large regional financial institution. She also ran a public relations and marketing company that published a best-selling healthcare book.

Adrienne received a bachelor’s of business administration from the University of Michigan and is especially interested in wellness and natural health.