INTRODUCTION

America’s energy demand is growing steadily. Energy prices are fluctuating unpredictably. And, we are learning more and more each day about the dangerous environmental and health impacts of an energy supply derived almost entirely from the combustion of dirty fossil fuels. In times like these, it is imperative to place an emphasis on minimizing energy waste.

Many household and commercial appliances are not subject to even the most simple energy efficiency standards. As a result, products such as torch lamps and refrigerated vending machines continue to rely on outdated technology to govern their use of energy. While energy-efficient versions of these and other products exist, their use is not mandated or even encouraged by many states.

Traditionally, states have played a crucial role in shaping energy efficiency standards for consumer products, and the time has come for states to take the lead again on this important issue. By implementing simple, already established efficiency standards for a mere ten household and commercial products, states can reduce their energy demand by up to five percent – saving consumers money on their electricity bills, reducing the need for new and dirty power plants, and encouraging investment in energy efficiency technologies.

This website offers the tools for you to bring energy efficiency standards to your state. These tools include a model bill, talking points, press clips, a fact pack, links, and other background information.

We may have other useful materials on this subject which are not posted on our website. Please feel free to contact us at info@serconline.org or call our office in Madison, WI at (608) 252-9800.

If you’ve used this site and found it helpful or, if you have suggestions about how it could be made more helpful, please let us know. Please feel free to use the sample bill text included here in your state. If you do, please notify us.

This package was last updated on October 10, 2003.

State Environmental Resource Center
106 East Doty Street, Suite 200 § Madison, Wisconsin 53703
Phone: 608-252-9800 § Fax: 608-252-9828
Email: info@serconline.org