Responsible Energy Policy: Encouraging an Energy Efficiency Standard for Utilities

Why Energy Efficiency?

Montana is sitting on a goldmine fuel source that has gone largely untapped - energy efficiency. Energy-efficient technologies exist today that could save the state between 25 and 30 percent on energy spending through 2030 and reduce the need for expensive new power plants.  Energy Efficiency should be the cornerstone of Montana's energy policy.

Montana's power companies play an important role in bringing these energy-saving solutions to their customers, and in the process, create good local jobs to get the work done. Simple upfront investments in the efficiency of new and existing homes, offices, schools and other buildings saves property owners money on energy bills, puts people to work and improves the comfort, health and productivity of those living, learning and working inside.

Montana's elected leaders can help everyday consumers save money and spur the economy by supporting policies that help advance energy efficiency programs at every scale - from the utilities that procure it, to our physical places of business and in our homes.

Montana should start at the source, and establish an energy efficiency standard for utilities. An efficiency standard is similar to a renewable energy standard and would establish a statewide measurable energy savings goal for utilities. Such a standard would ensure that all major gas and electric power companies are tapping into Montana's reservoir of energy savings, from making power plants more efficient to helping households and businesses reduce energy use. An efficiency standard would reduce the need for expensive new power plants and lower energy bills for all Montanans.