Policy Outreach & Analysis

Energy Efficiency as a Climate Solution

Energy efficiency policies and programs are consistently listed as some of the most effective and affordable means of driving down carbon emissions. In addition to reducing consumer costs, enhancing stability in the electric grid and reducing energy demand, efficiency is key to fighting climate change. From cutting-edge technologies like solid state lighting and smart grid solutions to tried and true measures like insulation and air sealing, saving energy reduces greenhouse gas emissions from power plants. Leading cities, states, businesses and utilities have committed to benchmarking their carbon use and reducing it through conservation and efficiency.

Energy Efficiency as a Climate Solution

NEEP works to consistently link energy efficiency to climate issues. We highlight carbon reductions achievable through measured savings that efficiency programs deliver across the region. NEEP advocates for a majority of Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) auction proceeds to be invested in energy efficiency programs in the states. Efficiency is not only an effective means of reducing carbon emissions, it has the potential to make RGGI a net-positive for the economy, rather than a cost.

Energy Efficiency as a Climate Solution

NEEP has from the outset closely monitored the development and implementation of the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI), a cooperative effort by Northeastern and Mid-Atlantic states to reduce carbon dioxide emissions that cause climate change. States participating in RGGI have developed a regional strategy for controlling emissions and conducting regular auctions of carbon emissions credits by power generators. NEEP is also closely tracking progress of the American Clean Energy and Security Act (ACES, or Waxman-Markey) legislation, which includes a number of innovative provisions aimed at tracking and reducing carbon levels 80 percent by 2050. One of these provisions is a national cap and trade program, similar to the ground-breaking RGGI.

In Massachusetts, NEEP has served since June 2010 as a working member of the Global Warming Solutions Project, a stakeholder group seeking to advance the clean energy and climate goals mandated under the landmark Global Warming Solutions Act of 2008 in Massachusetts. NEEP has led several of the energy efficiency initiatives of the project, including drafting the group's action plan for efficiency.