Auburn University Study: Shade Trees Reduce Power Bills By 11.4%
According to a new Auburn University study, trees that provide just 17.5% of heavy shade coverage for houses can save up to 11.4% on electricity usage and costs.
The yearlong study, which was conducted by economist Dr. David LaBand from Auburn University's School of Forestry, studied 160 houses in the Auburn area to determine the annual energy savings provided by shade trees, primarily looking at the months of May to September. He analyzed power bills, calculated shade coverage and surveyed the homeowners about household makeup, electricity usage habits, square footage, type of air conditioning, appliances, roofing, exterior material and other factors. Using local power company rates for kilowatt hours per day, Laband said the 11.4% savings would equal $31 to $33 per month.
The yearlong study, which was conducted by economist Dr. David LaBand from Auburn University's School of Forestry, studied 160 houses in the Auburn area to determine the annual energy savings provided by shade trees, primarily looking at the months of May to September. He analyzed power bills, calculated shade coverage and surveyed the homeowners about household makeup, electricity usage habits, square footage, type of air conditioning, appliances, roofing, exterior material and other factors. Using local power company rates for kilowatt hours per day, Laband said the 11.4% savings would equal $31 to $33 per month.
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