Energy Efficiency in the United States

Forthcoming in Van Calster, G., Vandenberghe, W., and Reins, L. (Eds), Research Handbook on Climate Mitigation Law, Cheltenham, Edward Elgar, 2015

30 Pages Posted: 1 Jul 2014 Last revised: 24 Nov 2014

See all articles by Albert Monroe

Albert Monroe

Quinnipiac University School of Law

Date Written: October 5, 2014

Abstract

Energy efficiency in buildings is crucial for climate change mitigation. Both national and state mandates increase energy efficiency, but most energy efficiency mandates in the United States are at the state level. The federal government mandates that its new buildings be energy efficient, and assists in the creation and implementation of energy-efficient building codes. The federal government also subsidizes energy efficiency, often through the tax code. State energy efficiency policy includes building codes, utility-run programs, and other incentives. Every state has some utility-run programs, and state utility regulation either requires or incentivizes energy efficiency programs. There are significant differences in utility-run programs among the states. Some states have minimal and ineffective programs, while other states like California and Massachusetts have transformative efforts, often led by utilities whose profits depend on reducing total energy usage. There are also private energy efficiency efforts, including private building standards like LEED and Green Globes.

Keywords: : energy, efficiency, building, United States, utility, power, building codes, LEED, Green Globes, decoupling, rebate, incentive, Weatherization Assistance Program

JEL Classification: K32, K23, L97, Q28, Q41

Suggested Citation

Monroe, Albert, Energy Efficiency in the United States (October 5, 2014). Forthcoming in Van Calster, G., Vandenberghe, W., and Reins, L. (Eds), Research Handbook on Climate Mitigation Law, Cheltenham, Edward Elgar, 2015, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2460506

Albert Monroe (Contact Author)

Quinnipiac University School of Law ( email )

275 Mount Carmel Ave.
Hamden, CT 06518
United States

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