ReCircle: Mandatory Energy Ratings, Inexpensive LEDs, Green Jobs, New Windows, and more!

*As last week was officially vacation week at Energy Circle (we're based in Maine, summer's short), we've conglomerated the best curated links from the past two weeks into one long post this week. Hope you enjoy: 

From Energy Circle:

The Top 5 Energy Efficient Products to Take to College.

As Energy Circle's summer intern Margaret Myers prepares to head back to school, she's concocted a list of the five basic energy efficiency tools and energy efficient products that every student should have in their dorm room.

Curated Links from the Web:

U.K. to Require Energy Ratings for All Buildings.

New legislation will make it compulsory for energy efficiency ratings to be published alongside all new real estate listings, signalling a growing awareness of energy efficiency as well as an evolving real estate market. (From The Guardian)

Americans Misled About How to Save Energy.

A new study by researchers at Columbia, Ohio State, and Carnegie Mellon Universities revealed that most Americans believe that small steps like turning off lights will net the most energy savings, while neglecting far more important measures like energy efficient appliances and insulation. (From Mother Nature Network)

Lighting Sciences Group Releases LED Bulb for Under $20.

The A-shaped bulb, which will be available in September, can fit into standard incandescent sockets, and marks yet another milestone on the road to LED penetration of the mainstream market. (From CNET)

Weatherization Program Creates 13,000 Jobs.

The Weatherization Assistance Program has created at least 13,000 jobs so far; and continues to grow. (From Mother Nature Network)

Weatherization Programs to Expand into Energy Monitoring, Renewables.

The Department of Energy has received $120 million in additional funding to finance installation of home energy monitors, solar panels, geothermal heat pumps and energy efficient appliances. (From CNET)

Is America Ready for Home Urinals?

Let's call a spade a spade: urinals save water; why not put one in the bathroom at home? (From Building Green)

Why Going for the Energy Efficient Air Conditioning Makes Economic Sense.

Clifford Kraus of the New York Times bought a new central air conditioning system by taking advantage of a $1,500 tax credit and no-interest financing, and expects to net savings of about $500 per year. (From the New York Times)  

When are Windows Worth the Extra Cost?

Although a homeowner can make many lower cost, more effective energy improvements before making the (large) investment in high performance windows, it’s most likely worth investing in quality when it finally comes time to replace those windows. (From Green Building Advisor)

Home Energy Efficiency: The Bitter Taste of Low Hanging Fruit.

Home energy efficiency may not be the sexiest home improvement to invest in, but it’s worth it. (From The Green Light Distrikt)

Homes Emit TWICE the Carbon as Cars.

This video from Foster City TV’s Green Footprint series discusses Home Performance 101, and why home energy efficiency is a bigger deal than most people realize. (From Foster City TV)