Energy Action Month : October Starts with The White House

by greenlivingguy @Seth_LeitmanNovember 1, 2011January 22, 2026

October was Energy Action Month — a national effort to underscore the critical link between American energy and prosperity, highlight the tremendous potential of clean energy technologies to create new American jobs and industries, and emphasize the importance of investing in American innovation to lead the 21st century global clean energy economy. The Administration has taken historic action to lay the foundation for a clean energy economy here in the United States. In the span of just two and a half years, we have made the largest investments in clean energy in our nation’s history, creating hundreds of thousands of jobs and putting us on track to double renewable energy capacity by the end of the President’s first term. We have built the domestic advanced battery industry from scratch, jump-starting the American manufacturing sector. We have established the toughest fuel economy standards for cars and trucks ever, saving consumers money at the pump and ensuring the vehicles of the future are built here in America. And we have taken the most aggressive steps in a generation to protect the health of American families by reducing harmful air pollution. To commemorate National Energy Action Month, the Administration took additional action to highlight our efforts in the area of clean energy. Today, the Council on Environmental Quality is hosting the 2nd annual GreenGov conference, which is designed to bring together sustainability leaders from government and the private sector, as well as the non-profit and academic communities to identify new opportunities around greening the Federal government. In addition, to create a more secure and efficient electrical grid, the Administration recently announced the selection of seven proposed transmission lines as pilot projects for accelerated permitting. These pilot projects are expected to create more than 11,000 construction and operations jobs in 12 states across the country.

Energy Action Month

This October celebrates Energy Action Month for the Obama Administration. It focuses on energy efficiency and conservation. It reminds individuals, businesses, and communities to innovate and adopt sustainable practices. Participating in various events and educational initiatives raises awareness about renewable energy sources. It highlights the benefits of reducing our carbon footprint. This month encourages us to explore new technologies and methods that enhance energy efficiency. Simple actions, like switching off lights when not in use, matter. Investing in energy-efficient appliances and vehicles also makes a difference.

Energy Action Month

October marked Energy Action Month. This national effort highlighted the link between American energy and prosperity. It showcased the potential of clean energy technologies to create new jobs and industries. Investing in American innovation is crucial. We must lead the global clean energy economy in the 21st century.

The Administration has taken historic action to build a clean energy economy in the United States. In just two and a half years, we have made the largest investments in clean energy ever. This effort creates hundreds of thousands of jobs. It also puts us on track to double renewable energy capacity by the end of the President’s first term. We built the domestic advanced battery industry from scratch. This jumpstarts the American manufacturing sector. We established the toughest fuel economy standards for cars and trucks. These standards save consumers money at the pump. They ensure future vehicles are made in America. Moreover, we have taken the most aggressive steps in a generation to protect American families’ health. We are reducing harmful air pollution.

Announcements this Month

To commemorate National Energy Action Month, the Administration highlights its efforts in clean energy. Today, the Council on Environmental Quality hosts the 2nd annual GreenGov conference. This event brings together sustainability leaders from government, the private sector, non-profits, and academia. Their goal is to identify new opportunities for greening the Federal government. Additionally, the Administration announces seven proposed transmission lines as pilot projects for accelerated permitting. These projects will create over 11,000 jobs in construction and operations across 12 states.

Earlier this month, as part of the electric vehicle pilot program aimed at reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable transportation, GSA delivered the first plug-in electric vehicle to the Department of the Navy. That’s essentially marking a significant milestone in the federal government’s commitment to environmental stewardship. This initiative expands the Administration’s previous efforts. It also demonstrates a proactive approach toward embracing innovative technologies to combat climate change. In 2010, GSA doubled the number of hybrids in the federal fleet. Again, that’s setting another precedent for integrating cleaner vehicles into government operations. With this latest addition, the Department of the Navy is poised to explore further opportunities. Essentially to enhance its fleet’s efficiency and reduce its overall environmental impact, paving the way for a greener future.

Navy receives the first Federal plug-in electric.

In October 2011, President Barack Obama proclaimed it National Energy Action Month. He encouraged Americans to unite for cleaner energy choices. These choices would reduce our carbon footprint and promote environmental sustainability. He highlighted the need to invest in innovative technologies. Such investments drive the renewable energy sector forward. They prepare the nation for future energy challenges. By taking action, Americans can build a stronger, secure energy future. This future supports economic growth and safeguards the planet. The month reminds us of our collective responsibility. We must pursue energy efficiency and harness renewable resources. This fosters a greener economy and enhances energy independence. Presidential Proclamation — National Energy Action Month 2011 (White House)

Clean-tech emphasis during October 2011 — Energy Action Month is underway. Obama’s administration announces a major clean technology push. This initiative supports small clean-tech companies. It highlights energy innovation. The administration commits to fostering a sustainable environment. It seeks to create jobs and stimulate economic growth nationwide. By investing in renewable energy and promoting energy efficiency, it encourages innovation across various sectors. This effort aims for a cleaner and more efficient energy landscape. The announcement includes plans for resources and competitive grants. It helps entrepreneurs overcome barriers and thrive in a rapidly evolving market. Obama announces major clean tech push during Energy Action Month 2011.

Energy Action Month by President Obama

Energy Action Month began in 2011. Obama declared this initiative. It promotes energy conservation and efficiency. The program encourages individuals, communities, and businesses to reduce energy consumption. Various organizations collaborate and provide resources. They offer educational materials to empower citizens. This campaign emphasizes energy efficiency and conservation. It aims to build a culture valuing sustainable energy sources. Through workshops, seminars, and awareness campaigns, stakeholders show that small actions lead to significant environmental benefits. October Is Energy Action Month — background & history

Modernizing Our Electric Grid, Creating Jobs
Stakeholders discuss the Administration’s efforts to modernize the U.S. electrical infrastructure. The seven pilot projects identified by the Administration’s Interagency Rapid Response Team for Transmission are estimated to create more than 11,000 construction and operation jobs.

Interior Releases Updated Roadmap for Solar Energy Development
As part of President Obama’s commitment to developing the U.S.’s domestic energy portfolio, including clean energy resources, Secretary of the Interior, Ken Salazar, made a public supplement to the federal plan to facilitate responsible utility-scale solar development on public lands in six western states—Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico and Utah.

Sources

GreenGov 2011: Connecting you with sustainability leaders for a leaner, greener, and more efficient government. In addition, The White House Council on Environmental Quality is once again hosting the GreenGov Symposium this year. Specifically, it will take place from October 31 to November 2. This event, therefore, unites leaders in sustainability. That’s definitely bringing them together under one roof.

Moreover, the symposium provides an essential platform for sharing innovative ideas and best practices. Additionally, it fosters partnerships that can effectively drive real progress in environmental policies. Furthermore, attendees can look forward to various panel discussions, featuring prominent speakers from government, academia, and the private sector.

In particular, collaborative talks will focus on strategies to advance sustainable practices, cut waste, and promote energy efficiency. By uniting voices committed to environmental stewardship, the GreenGov Symposium ultimately inspires actionable solutions. As a result, these solutions not only benefit the planet but also enhance the quality of life for future generations.

Government Speaks out to Private Sector

GSA Challenges Private Sector to Reduce Energy Use at Federal Buildings
This month, General Services Administrator Martha Johnson announced GSA’s Net Zero Renovation Challenge: a new initiative that actively challenges the private sector to improve the energy performance of federal buildings through the use of Energy Service Performance Contracts (ESPCs).

This initiative, therefore, is part of a broader strategy specifically aimed at significantly reducing energy consumption in federal facilities; moreover, these facilities are increasingly under scrutiny for their environmental impact. By leveraging innovative technologies and sustainable practices, GSA not only aims to lower utility costs but also seeks to promote a greener economy. Furthermore, this approach encourages collaborative efforts across various sectors, thereby enhancing overall effectiveness and commitment to sustainability.

Additionally, collaboration with private sector leaders is crucial; in particular, their expertise and resources can ultimately lead to the development of cutting-edge solutions that enhance operational efficiency and reduce carbon footprints. Therefore, this challenge encourages industry participants to not only demonstrate their commitment to environmental stewardship but also assists the federal government in achieving its ambitious energy goals.

More Great Green Actions this Month

A group of people engaging in discussion near solar panels and wind turbines in a renewable energy landscape. Energy action month — A group of individuals discussing renewable energy technologies amidst wind turbines and solar panels, highlighting the importance of sustainable practices.

Leading by Example: GSA Electrifies the Fleet; Delivers First Electric Vehicle to Navy
U.S. General Services Administration’s Chief of Staff, Michael J. Robertson, highlights the Navy’s leadership in energy security. These reforms matter now more than ever. They help us fight climate change and reduce fossil fuel dependence. Recently, the Navy added the Chevy Volt to its electric vehicle fleet. This move boosts operational efficiency for transport. It also sets a precedent for sustainable practices in federal agencies. This addition promotes clean energy innovation. In addition, The Navy commits to a greener future and encourages other departments to adopt electric vehicles. Together, they contribute to nationwide energy conservation goals.

Coming Soon to a Delivery Route Near You: Cleaner Trucks
Drew McConville, Deputy Associate Director for Energy & Climate Change at the White House Council on Environmental Quality, shares some highlights from his visit to the Hybrid Truck Users Forum (HTUF) 2011 conference and expo in Baltimore, MD. Furthermore, the expo featured trucks equipped with the newest innovations in clean energy technologies; thus, paving the way for a greener future.

More Greener Actions this Month

Helping America’s Small Businesses Build a Clean Energy Future
Recently, the Small Business Administration’s Administrator Karen Mills, alongside Navy Secretary Ray Mabus, announced the launch of green.sba.gov; thus, this innovative tool is specifically designed for small businesses that aim to thrive in the burgeoning clean energy sector. Moreover, this new platform serves as a comprehensive resource, enabling entrepreneurs to easily access a wealth of federal opportunities, grant programs, and incentives that support the transition to sustainable energy solutions. Consequently, with a commitment to fostering growth and sustainability, green.sba.gov not only simplifies the search process but also empowers small business owners to make informed decisions, which can significantly drive their companies forward in a competitive marketplace.

The Department of Energy announces a new clean energy partnership with the Republic of Korea. Specifically, as part of the South Korean State visit, Energy Secretary Steven Chu and Minister of Knowledge Economy Joong-Kyung Choi of the Republic of Korea signed a new agreement establishing the U.S.-Korea Clean Energy Technology Partnership. This partnership, therefore, aims to foster collaboration in innovative clean energy solutions, particularly focusing on renewable energy sources such as solar and wind while also advancing energy efficiency technologies. By sharing knowledge and resources, both nations consequently seek to enhance their energy security and tackle the pressing challenges of climate change. Ultimately, the agreement highlights the commitment of both governments to invest in sustainable development and promote economic growth through green technologies, thereby contributing to a healthier planet for future generations.