New study from Nobel Prize Winner shows how aggressive energy efficiency policies could make Georgia a leader in smart energy use

ATLANTA, GA – (April 12, 2010) – According to a new study released today by a team of researchers at the Georgia Institute of Technology and Duke University’s Nicholas Institute, aggressive adoption of energy efficiency programs in Georgia would lower utility bills by $3.8 billion and create 32,200 new jobs by 2020. Avoided annual electricity consumption is equal to the amount of electricity produced by six power plants in 2020 and 10 power plants in 2030.

Across the Southern region, aggressive adoption of energy efficiency programs would lower utility bills by $41 billion and create 380,000 new jobs by 2020.

“Georgia families are letting hundreds of dollars slip through their fingers each year – money none of us can afford to waste,” Angela Speir Phelps, executive director of Georgia Watch (and former Georgia Public Service Commissioner) said. “It’s imperative that state leaders encourage energy efficiency as a way to help consumers mitigate increasing utility bills.” Read more

A new report, released by Georgia Watch and Consumer Federation of America, finds that Georgia families will continue to spend an extra $450 per year on their energy bills if strong energy efficiency policies are not incorporated into the climate and energy legislation before Congress. The report shows that robust state and federal energy efficiency policies could dramatically reduce energy consumption and save Georgians money on their energy bills every year. Read the rest of this entry »

Check out Georgia Watch board member and consumer advocate Clark Howard’s tips on tax credits for green living, growing your own produce and recipes for making your own cleaning supplies click here. Clark also says consumers should think about locking natural gas rates before the cold weather arrives in Georgia.

Weatherization, behavioral changes and energy efficient products – help mitigate increasing costs of energy by lowering consumption.

Leaks:
Reducing drafts save you 5% to 30% on electric bills per year. To find leaks, close all windows/doors and turn on exhaust fans (usually located in kitchen and bathroom). Read the rest of this entry »