Energy Efficiency Bill Could Save Energy and Money while Reducing Pollution
Energy Savings and Industrial Competitiveness Act of 2014 Introduced Today
Contact:
(Washington, D.C. – February 27, 2014) Environmental Defense Action Fund (EDAF) today praised Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Rob Portman (R-OH) for their work on a wide-ranging energy efficiency bill.
Shaheen and Portman introduced the Energy Savings and Industrial Competitiveness Act of 2014 [PDF] today. The bill is co-sponsored by Senators Mary Landrieu (D-LA), Susan Collins (R-ME), Mark Warner (D-VA), Kelly Ayotte (R-NH), Joe Manchin (D-WV), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Al Franken (D-MN), Johnny Isakson (R-GA), Chris Coons (D-DE), and John Hoeven (R-ND).
“Energy efficiency offers Americans an opportunity to reduce our energy use – and energy costs — while also reducing the pollution that causes climate change,” said EDAF president Elizabeth Thompson. “Senators Shaheen and Portman have created a bill that could implement some sensible energy efficiency improvements, create jobs, and help both families and businesses lower their energy bills. We look forward to working with them on this bipartisan effort.”
EDAF also urged adoption of one potential amendment to the measure — the Energy Productivity Innovation Challenge (EPIC) by Senators Mark Warner (D-VA), Joe Manchin (D-WV), Jon Tester (D-MT) and Brian Schatz (D-HI).
EPIC would challenge states to develop innovative ideas and strategies for increasing energy savings. According to a study [PDF] by the independent American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy, EPIC would result in net savings of almost $12 billion dollars, and would significantly cut energy use and carbon dioxide emissions. EPIC would also return $8.40 in energy savings for every one dollar invested.
“EPIC is a voluntary energy initiative that allows states to lead the way with policies tailored to their unique energy profiles,” said Thompson. “It’s also a great investment for the American taxpayer. This bill, and especially this potential amendment, is an important step in the right direction. We shouldn’t miss this opportunity.”
