October 21, 2009

Delaware Making Greatest Strides Toward Energy Efficiency

DOVER -- The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) today recognized Governor Jack Markell and the State of Delaware as the most improved state in the nation when it comes to energy efficiency policy and programs.  According to a 50-state scorecard from ACEEE released today during a live National Press Club news conference, Delaware jumped in the annual energy efficiency ranking from 32nd in the nation in 2008 to 20th this year – the largest jump of any state in the nation.

“We’re pleased to be recognized here today as the most improved state and to join other states in the list of top 20 performers with respect to Energy Efficiency” said Governor Markell. “Developing a green economy built upon energy efficiency and renewable energy is a top priority of my administration because it will create jobs, spur new industries, and enhance the state’s economic competitiveness for years to come. Today’s award encourages us that we’re moving in the right direction.”

Delaware’s jump in the rankings is due to several factors, including a new Energy Efficiency Resource Standard under Senate Bill 106 requiring a 15-percent reduction in energy demand by 2015 and new requirements that energy efficiency be considered as a resource before the construction of new fossil-fired energy generating stations.  The state’s new Sustainable Energy Utility (SEU) was created to foster a sustainable energy future with programs, education and resources focused on efficiencies, renewable energy sources and conservation. Delaware also is credited with having one of the more aggressive energy efficiency building codes in the nation, following passage by the General Assembly this past June.

“Delaware made huge strides over the past few months with passage of the Delaware Energy Conservation and Efficiency Act of 2009, our new energy code for buildings, new laws governing access to wind and solar technologies, net metering rules, and the preliminary roll out of the SEU,” said Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control Secretary Collin O’Mara.  “The initial progress recognized today will serve as a solid foundation for Delaware to establish itself as a leader in the national effort to create a sustainable, low-carbon economy.”

Senator Harris McDowell, Chair of the Senate Energy and Transportation Committee and co-Chair of the Sustainable Energy Utility (SEU) Oversight Board stated, “As a result of innovative legislation and the SEU programs, Delaware is rapidly emerging as a national model for large scale energy efficiency.   Energy Efficiency is not only our largest resource its also the quickest, cheapest, cleanest way to extend our world's energy supplies and save Delawareans money, it’s one of the best ways to jump start our economy and create jobs.”

The new report released today is the third edition of ACEEE’s State Energy Efficiency Scorecard, which provides a comprehensive approach to score and rank states on the adoption and implementation of energy efficiency policies and programs. The scorecard examines six state energy efficiency policy areas: (1) utility-sector and public benefits programs and policies; (2) transportation polices; (3) building energy codes; (4) combined heat and power; (5) state government initiatives; and (6) appliance efficiency standards. States can earn up to 50 possible points in these six policy areas combined, with the maximum possible points in each area weighted by the magnitude of its potential impact on energy savings.

The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy ( http://www.aceee.org ) is an independent and nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing energy efficiency as a means of promoting economic prosperity, energy security, and environmental protection. Copies of the report can be found on the organization’s website.