Battle zone Energy!

The next game you play on Facebook might not involve birds, the mafia or fictional farms. In fact, a new app by Opower, a behavioral science firm with a penchant for data crunching,  is totally rooted in reality. It aims to pit you against your friends with the challenge of seeing who can use the least energy.

From the New York Times:

Opower’s founder, Alex Laskey, said the company’s new app would allow anyone who signed up to automatically upload their usage data from their local utility to their Facebook page and then invite friends to do the same and compare notes on their efforts to save energy. The app could be used to share tips on what works in a community-support forum.

Turn off your appliance – point. Maximize your thermostat – point. Change out your light bulbs – point Speaking as someone who just upgraded to an energy-efficient washer and dryer, I say game on!