Sarah D. Kirby

Creating the next generation of residential energy stewards using the energy transformation curriculum

Youth are members of the current generation of energy consumers, and the future generation of energy stewards. These young people are also the next generation of housing consumers. As such, it is important that they know how energy is used in a home and develop an understanding about energy efficiency and conservation skills and strategies in order to reduce overall usage and improve energy efficiency in the home.

Housing and its Influence on Life and Job Satisfaction Among Clergy

AbstractThe purpose of this study was to examine the relationships among the variables of housing satisfaction, life satisfaction, and job satisfaction of clergy and spouses employed by an Oklahoma religious organization. The sample (N=438 individuals representing 263 households) consisted of the clergy and their spouses, if applicable. A questionnaire was developed to assess housing, life, and job satisfaction. Results indicated that there are significant relationships among the variables of housing, life, and job satisfaction. Significant differences in cleric and spouse perceptions of satisfaction with housing were found. Specific areas of concern, such as decor, amount of storage, space, landscaping, and balance between work and home life, were identified as sources of dissatisfaction among households. With this knowledge, religious organizations, as well as other employers who provide housing for their employees, will be better equipped to improve overall satisfaction with housing, and in turn, to im...

Exploring the Impact of the E-Conservation Residential Energy Audit Program

Abstract Residential home energy assessments, also known as home energy audits, are comprehensive evaluations of a home’s energy use conducted by certified home energy raters. Energy assessments help consumers identify areas in their home where significant energy savings can be made. Energy assessments also identify occupant behaviors that contribute to overall energy use. The E-Conservation Consumer Energy Education Program successfully utilized home energy audits to help consumers identify building structure and occupant behaviors that contributed to high energy use in their homes. Examining impacts of the audits revealed that those homeowners who were able to implement suggestions from the energy audits realized home energy savings. Examination also revealed that time, cost, and lack of information served as barriers to making home energy efficient improvements.

eXtension’s Home Energy Community of Practice: Providing Residential Energy Education for Consumers

Abstract Consumers need credible, accurate, researched-based information to assist them in making wise energy choices. The eXtension Home Energy Community of Practice (CoP) was created in response to this need. The Home Energy CoP addresses the barrier of a lack of resources from reliable sources that consumers face when searching for and contemplating home energy improvements. The CoP focuses on providing energy education for lay and professional audiences utilizing the expertise and content provided by Cooperative Extension housing professionals across the country.