Amid rising costs and economic uncertainties, New York’s Governor Kathy Hochul announced investments that should help customers lower their utility bill and reduce their energy consumption. "New York State is leading by example and setting in motion a bold agenda to promote energy affordability, reduce emissions, and invest in clean air and water.”
“We know the high energy costs faced by consumers today are being felt throughout all New York communities. As such, Governor Hochul has proposed a bold agenda that focuses on securing energy affordability with a particular focus on those New Yorkers who most need the additional support whether through bill relief or making their homes more energy efficient,” said New York State Energy Research and Development Authority President and CEO and Climate Action Council Co-Chair Doreen M. Harris.
Greater investments into energy efficiency and commitments to net zero-emissions are among the recent accomplishments celebrated by energy efficiency experts. “Given high energy costs this winter and the critical role of energy efficiency in reducing greenhouse gas emissions to curb climate change, continued energy efficiency progress this year will be essential,” said Executive Director Steven Nadel for the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE).
In Europe, several campaigns were launched to create customer behavioral changes and bring awareness to the energy crisis at hand. Reasons for the success of recent campaigns include, getting the message right, getting the message across and combining information with behavioral insights. Simple, relatable information communicated conveyed through the most impactful channel improves the reception of the message. Real time-feedback, demand response programs and home energy reports encourage energy-saving behavior.
Here in the U.S., the Inflation Reduction Act will focus on decarbonization, buildings, clean heat and energy efficiency standards. To reach certain climate goals, how will the industry recruit, maintain and train skilled energy management employees?