Why energy efficiency is important in the fight against climate change

Beyond cost-savings on your energy bill, there is a critical link between energy efficiency and climate change. Delivering cleaner, more cost-effective energy is a key goal of our Clean Energy Blueprint — but we know we can’t do it alone. Read on to learn how energy efficiency is making a positive impact on the environment.

The impact of energy efficiency

In the 1970s, a petroleum shortage caused a drastic increase in oil prices, which led to one of the first big movements to conserve energy in the United States. At that time, President Jimmy Carter encouraged Americans to engage in energy efficiency practices like turning down their thermostats and wearing extra layers. This was the beginning of a widespread push for energy efficiency that remains more relevant than ever.

These early energy efficiency practices have already made a huge impact on energy bills and in the fight against climate change. One report, compiled by the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy, Alliance to Save Energy, and The Business Council for Sustainable Energy, shows that without the energy efficiency investments that have been made since 1980, energy consumption and carbon emissions would be 60% higher.

Looking ahead

Since that first energy crisis, there’s been great progress on adoption of energy efficiency practices and our understanding of climate change. But progress needs to get faster and more impactful. The same Energy Efficiency Impact Report reveals that increasing energy efficiency could help reduce carbon emissions by as much as 50% by 2050. Recognizing that energy efficiency and climate change are closely intertwined can help us combat the pressing climate crisis and nearly remove carbon dioxide from the environment.

Energy efficiency also paves the way for renewable energy projects by mitigating the costs of adding new capacity to the system. According to the Environmental Protection Agency’s energy resource guide for state and local governments, this will help protect electricity producers and consumers from supply disruptions, unstable energy prices, and other security risks.

As we work toward a net-zero carbon future, energy efficiency is becoming increasingly important. While some energy efficiency tasks – like unplugging all your electronics before heading out of town – can feel mundane, remember you’re making a difference for the planet.

Check out our recent blogs on energy efficiency for more tips.