Energy efficiency initiatives continue to make inroads in several states, according to the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) in its annual State Energy Efficiency Scorecard.
In the 10th edition of the ranking, the organization measures the progress of state policies and programs that encourage lower energy consumption. California and Massachusetts tied for first overall, with Vermont, Rhode Island, Connecticut and New York all rounding out the top five. The most-improved states were Missouri, Maine and Michigan.
The rankings are based on six primary policy areas: utility and public benefits programs, transportation, building energy codes, combined heat and power (CHP), state government-led initiatives around energy efficiency, and appliance and equipment standards.
California’s status was reinforced by a strong national presence in setting appliance standards, having adopted standards for more than 100 energy-saving products. In addition, the Golden State became the first state to adopt LED standards, while also updating standards for HVAC air filters, fluorescent dimming ballasts and heat pump water-chilling packages.
Massachusetts is no stranger to energy efficiency, as it topped the rankings in 2014 and 2015. The state has a strong incentive program to encourage energy-efficient upgrades and is committed to rebate savings programs to bring operating costs down.
