We all know about clean, local energy like solar and wind. But there’s another form of clean energy: energy efficiency. Because the cleanest, cheapest energy is the energy you don’t use at all.
While superficially a snooze fest, energy efficiency is a powerful tool in the fight against climate change and towards a more equitable future. (It can also save you money, clean up our air, and even improve your health.)
While the Commonwealth ranks first in the nation in energy efficiency, it could be doing more to save families and businesses money while cutting pollution.
Maine’s newly elected governor and legislature delivered on critical new laws that will cut climate-damaging emissions, protect Maine’s families and children from toxic chemicals, clean up our rivers, and save energy – all while creating jobs, growing new industries, and strengthening the economy.
Managing energy demand is the easiest and cheapest way to meet energy needs.
“The disastrous effects of climate change are at our front door and we must take aggressive action to reduce our emissions to zero by 2050,” said Greg Cunningham, Vice President and Director of CLF’s Clean Energy and Climate Change program. “The Clean Energy Connect project will significantly reduce New England’s climate-damaging emissions by providing low-carbon electricity and decreasing our reliance on natural gas.”
CLF issued a brief statement on behalf of president Bradley Campbell, saying the project has the potential “to be a major win” for the climate and for families and businesses throughout New England. Central Maine Power, Campbell said, appears willing to make the necessary concessions to generate broad support.
Energy efficiency cuts harmful carbon pollution cheaply and helps keep families safe and warm. That’s why we’ve been working hard on the efficiency beat in New Hampshire, which still ranks last in the region for the effectiveness of its energy efficiency programs. This poor ranking means we’re paying a lot more than we need to… Continue reading New Hampshire’s Lagging Energy Efficiency Program Is Getting a Boost
Global climate change has real effects here at home, including creating more intense winter storms. Try these practical ways to stay warm at home while reducing your energy costs.
“The health and economic well-being of people and our planet depend on bold action today to create a transportation system for the future,” said Amy Laura Cahn, director, Healthy Communities & Environmental Justice program at Conservation Law Foundation. “Environmental justice communities have the fewest resources to adapt to the impacts of climate change but have long borne the greatest burdens of pollution and transportation inequity. We welcome a regional problem-solving approach, but our most disadvantaged residents must have a seat at the table.”
