ACEEE "Rates the States" on Employing Energy Efficiency as the "First Fuel" to Power Their Economies

California tops the list of U.S. states employing energy efficiency as the "first fuel" to grow their economies while meeting electricity demand, combating global warming, and contributing to U.S. energy security, according to a new report released today by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE). The 2008 State Energy Efficiency Scorecard rated and ranked state-level action on model energy efficiency policies, programs, and practices. With California claiming the number one ranking, Idaho rated as the "most improved" state since ACEEE’s first state scorecard report graded state action through 2006.

"The top ranked states are demonstrating great leadership in promoting energy independence with cost-effective energy efficiency investments," said Maggie Eldridge, Research Associate at ACEEE and lead author of the report. "By setting innovative policies and programs that help consumers save energy, states are using energy efficiency as the first line of defense against rising energy prices while increasing our nation’s energy security, fostering economic prosperity, and combating global warming."

Full Story: http://www.aceee.org/press/e086pr.htm