Energy Efficiency

Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency programs aren't just the "right" thing to do-- they're the smart energy choice. Since 1999, market-based energy efficiency programs have helped to lower peak demand for electricity even as the state has continued to grow. energy efficiency is the cheapeast, quickest, and cleanest way for Texas to meet its power needs, especially when combined with controlling and lowering customer demand. Studies have found that energy efficiency programs have far greater potential impact than originally believed.

Our Recommendations

• Raise energy efficiency goal: utility-funded incentive programs should be set a 1% of peak demand and energy use by 2015
• Adopt additional state appliance efficiency standards: Texas could save up to $1 billion by 2030.
• Promote weatherization and use funds already set aside in the System Benefit Fund.
• Raise statewisde building codes from 2001 to 2009 International Energy Conservation Code
• Increase the Texas LOANStar program from $100 to $300 million, require energy audits of all large publicly-owned buildings and initiate a state-funded laon program for electric cooperatives and municipality-owned utilities.