Decline-in-electricity

U.S. Electricity Use Declines, Energy Efficiency Could be a Factor

March 25, 2014
While the economic recession explains the decline in sales in 2008 and 2009, it is much less clear why sales have continued to fall.

Electricity sales fell by 1.9% in 2012 over 2007’s figures and sales in the first ten months of 2013 have fallen even lower, according to a new white paper released by the American Council for an Energy-Efficiency Economy (ACEEE).

While the economic recession explains the decline in sales in 2008 and 2009, it is much less clear why sales have continued to fall. The ACEEE suggests energy-efficient buildings, lighting, and appliances have had a positive impact on energy usage.

Between 1993 and 2012, changes in electricity use were most influenced by energy efficiency programs and policies, warmer weather, changes in gross domestic product, changes in electricity prices, and long-term trends. Over the more recent period of 2007 to 2012, savings from energy efficiency programs and policies and from warmer winter weather appear to be the most important contributors to declining electricity use.

Visit Why is Electricity No Longer Growing? for the ACEEE’s full analysis.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Buildings, create an account today!

Sponsored Recommendations

Building Better Schools

Download this digital resource to better understand the challenges and opportunities in designing and operating educational facilities for safety, sustainability, and performance...

Tips to Keep Facility Management on Track

How do you plan to fill the knowledge gap as seasoned facility managers retire or leave for new opportunities? Learn about the latest strategies including FM tech innovations ...

The Beauty & Benefits of Biophilic Design in the Built Environment

Biophilic design is a hot trend in design, but what is it and how can building professionals incorporate these strategies for the benefits of occupants? This eHandbook offers ...

The Benefits of Migrating from Analog to DMR Two-Way Radios

Are you still using analog two-way radios? Download this white paper and discover the simple and cost-effective migration path to digital DMR radios that deliver improved audio...

Most Read

Sponsored