California Launches Biggest Energy Efficiency Program In History

nrdc.org, Sep 26, 2005

SAN FRANCISCO Californians facing another winter of high heating bills can save money by taking advantage of the biggest energy efficiency program in state history. Today the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) approved unanimously 4-0 utilities' plans to provide $2 billion in consumer rebates and other efficiency incentives over the next three years. In addition to lower bills, utility customers -- and all Californians -- will enjoy the clean air benefits of reduced power plant pollution, according to the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC).

"The net benefit to California's economy will be nearly $3 billion," said Devra Wang, NRDC staff scientist. "That's a 150 percent return on investment for consumers. Anyone who could do the same in the stock market would make the cover of Fortune magazine.

"Every year the new program will avert the need to build another giant power plant, at half the cost and without the pollution," Wang continued. "California is proving, once again, that efficiency is the fastest, cheapest, cleanest way to meet our energy needs."

Under the program consumers who purchase energy efficient appliances like air conditioners, clothes washers, furnaces and water heaters will be eligible for rebates ranging from $35 to more than $600. In addition to the instant cash, consumers will see lower bills because efficient appliances use less energy. The rebates will vary depending on each of the state's investor owned utilities: Pacific Gas & Electric, Southern California Edison, San Diego Gas & Electric, and Southern California Gas.Consumers can see a full list of available rebates by visiting www.flexyourpower.org or their local utilities' websites "California is an undisputed world leader in energy efficiency," said Wang. Read more about this at nrdc.org.