WASHINGTON — A diverse coalition of energy leaders has unveiled a set of recommendations designed to double United States energy productivity by 2030. Chaired by U.S. Sen. Mark Warner (D-Va.) and Tom King, president, National Grid U.S., the Alliance Commission on National Energy Efficiency Policy released a plan, called Energy 2030, that calls for investment in energy productivity in all sectors of the economy; modernization of U.S. infrastructure, buildings, transportation, and equipment; and education of consumers, business leaders, and policy makers to encourage smarter energy use.

“Doubling our energy productivity will yield huge returns for our economy and increase our competitiveness,” said Warner. “This bipartisan plan can serve as a blueprint to advance energy efficiency and bring direct and tangible benefits to American families and businesses while building a stronger economy and healthier environment.”

If adopted, the commission said that by 2030 the U.S. could:

• Add 1.3 million jobs;

• Cut average household energy costs;

• Save American businesses $169 billion a year;

• Increase GDP by up to 2 percent;

• Decrease energy imports by more than $100 billion a year; and

• Reduce CO2 emissions by one-third.

“Stopping energy waste will help all Americans get the most out of their hard-earned income,” said Kateri Callahan, president, Alliance to Save Energy. “By doubling productivity, we’ll wring more out of every dollar spent on energy, helping families improve the quality of their lives by freeing up money to either save or spend on other things.”

The commission said its Energy 2030 plan maximizes energy productivity by expanding financing opportunities, reforming taxes and regulations, spurring innovation, strengthening standards, and building consumer awareness.

“Our Energy 2030 plan goes well beyond capturing the more obvious energy efficiency benefits to uncover significant economic opportunities,” said King. “The solutions will drive innovation and new technologies forward, improving and modernizing U.S. infrastructure and helping us to compete globally.”

The commission said that work already has begun to turn its recommendations into legislation. It will collaborate with its 13 honorary congressional vice chairs to develop legislative proposals at the national level as well as discuss the recommendations with Obama administration officials. In addition, it will advance its recommendations across the country at the local and state levels.

Publication date: 2/4/2013