As human beings, we like to know that even big organizations can make mistakes. As it turns out, the Department of Energy didn't pass their own energy test. There was room for considerable improvement.

I am sure they will start working on these items immediately. However, the report is interesting. Beware that the report is a PDF file and you will have to download it. Click the Related Link if you want it.

The key point is that as an organization made up of people, there is room for improvement. There are monitors set with absurd time settings for auto power off. Some monitors not set to power down from inactivity at all.

As much fun as it is to recognize that even our government agencies are not perfect, this is really a good opportunity to realize we need to check our own settings, and our habits. It is very easy to slide back into old routines. Saving energy should not be a burden, it should be a matter of habit.

Now, take a minute to check your computer power save settings. Make sure they are reasonable. On many systems, you can right click an open space on the desktop area and choose settings. After you are in settings, look for power saving or energy star.

Don't forget to turn off the lights when you leave the room, even if it's your office at work.