EcoRebates Blog State Energy Efficiency Resource Standards (EERS) - Why They Matter

A recent policy brief from the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy (ACEEE) provides a concise state by state snapshot of these energy savings targets called EERS. These state level commitments are considered one of the key drivers in energy efficiency program spending. And, rebates are a component of that portfolio spending.To date, 24 states have enacted long-term (3+ yrs), binding energy savings targets (see the map above). These states comprise 67% of electricity sales in the U.S. And, most states are currently meeting or are on track to meet energy saving goals. According to another ACEEE report, 12 states are going further, ramping up policies and programs to achieve aggressive EERS targets. Total energy efficiency program spending is projected to doubled to $9.5B by 2025 according to a report by the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. Our TakeawayWith aggressive EERS targets, program sponsors will be on the hook to drive increased consumer engagement that achieves savings. A 2013 priority will be to transition rebate programs from traditional 'mail-in' style to instant at point of sale, and target an evolving mix of high-efficiency products. Also, EE programs and savings targets will become more evenly distributed across the country. Energy efficiency program spending has long been concentrated in a handful of states located in the Northeast and West. EERS policies are driving change with momentum in Midwestern states - with more aggressive EERS driving more spending - and Southern states with new state EERS initiatives launching. Programs that leverage consumer engagement tools (like Rebate Finder) will be well-positioned to meet these regional needs with localized and product specific incentives. ResourcesACEEE Policy BriefLawrence Berkeley National Laboratory Report