ENERGY EFFICIENCY

There was a time when Texas led the way on energy efficiency standards. Now, the same state that once pioneered the Energy Efficiency Resource Plan that was adopted by 28 other states in the U.S. has been eclipsed by each and every one of those states. 

And even so, Texas employs more energy efficiency workers (169,400) than oil and gas workers (159,400).

Energy efficiency is a powerful tool in the transition to a clean energy economy. Every dollar spent on energy efficiency in 2019 yielded $2.80 for consumers and saved Texas’ poorest residents 16% every year on utility bills. Other benefits of energy efficiency include:

• Reduces demand, lowers risk of blackouts and lowers severity of blackouts when they occur. 

• Increases resilience in storms by keeping heat in the house in the winter and cold inside during the summer.

• Lowers energy costs for all customers, especially those experiencing high energy burden. Programs have strong evaluation, measurement, and verification requirements. Every project is checked to ensure it delivers benefits.

Energy Efficiency Bills at the Texas Legislature

HB 4556 by Anchia and SB 243 by Eckhardt would increase the state’s energy efficiency goal to 1% by 2025, a significant increase which would make a real difference in preventing future catastrophes like Texas experienced in February. This new goal would put us nearly even with the average state with an energy efficiency goal.