San Jose Area Libraries Helping Patrons ‘Think Green’

Local residents who have ever wondered exactly how much electricity is gobbled up by their household appliances now have a way to find out: Head to the local library.

Libraries throughout Santa Clara County are loaning out new Kill-A-Watt EZ Meters for free to residents, which can be taken home and plugged in to any household appliance to find out exactly how much energy the appliance uses, and what that costs the homeowner. The program has been a hit with the public, especially in Sunnyvale, where the meters have been checked out 64 times since July 1.

“I loved the idea, and people are excited to learn how much energy they are using every day,” Sunnyvale director of libraries Lisa Rosenblum said. “We want the process to be as simple as possible for people, so it’s totally free and we are encouraging residents to come check them out.”