Shaheen-Portman bill could save nation billions

September 9, 2013 | By Barbara Vergetis Lundin

The proposed Energy Savings & Industrial Competitiveness Act of 2013 (S 1392) and related amendments have the potential to save the nation billions while creating domestic jobs and reducing energy waste, according to a new analysis by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE). S 1392 introduced by Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Rob Portman (R-OH) is pending floor consideration when the Senate returns from recess.

The ACEEE analysis looked at the impacts of several provisions in the bill as well as a group of related amendments under consideration. These provisions cut government and industrial energy waste and help homeowners finance energy-efficiency improvements, among other energy-saving measures. ACEEE found that the proposals being considered could, in combination, save consumers and businesses over $65 billion on their energy bills by 2030.

These savings could lead to a strong economy, enabling consumers who save money on their energy bills to reinvest this money into goods and services where they live, stimulating local economies. The energy-efficiency measures proposed by the legislation would also help create new jobs -- altogether more than 152,000 in 2025, increasing to 174,000 by 2030, according to ACEEE.

"The Senate should act quickly to pass this important legislation," said Steven Nadel, ACEEE executive director. "The provisions we analyzed have the power to save consumers money, stimulate the economy, and protect the environment."

For more:
- see this report
- see this report
- get the ACEEE report

Related Article:
House passes bill to enhance energy efficiency

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