By Annie Gilleo, State Policy Research Analyst. This post discusses the latest findings from the State Energy Scorecard.
We spend a lot of time here at ACEEE with numbers. We calculate energy savings, efficiency investments, and jobs. Even with all this data at our fingertips, though, I’m always most curious to see the numbers we produce every fall in the State Energy Efficiency Scorecard. This will be the eighth year we’ve ranked states on their adoption of policies that encourage energy efficiency. While some results are easy to predict, there are always a few surprises. As the launch of the 2014 State Energy Efficiency Scorecard draws near, here are just a few numbers to whet your appetite:
51: Number of “states” we rank in the State Scorecard. Thought there were only 50 states in the U.S.? Well you’re right, but we include the District of Columbia too!
State Energy Scorecard US territories
3: Number of U.S. territories scored in the 2014 State Scorecard. For the first time, we’ve worked with our contacts in Guam, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands to bring you up-to-date information on their energy efficiency initiatives.
Metrics to Assess Scores
31: Number of metrics we assess to generate state scores. These metrics span seven policy areas and cover everything from goals to reduce vehicle miles traveled to incentives for combined heat and power projects. They also cover targets for utility energy savings.
50: Points possible in the 2014 State Energy Efficiency Scorecard. Spoiler: No state achieved a perfect score this year, but some came close! This indicates that while many states are making significant strides towards energy efficiency, there remains room for improvement. Various factors contributed to the scoring, such as policies enacted, incentives provided to residents, and the implementation of renewable energy sources. The competition to enhance energy efficiency is fierce, with several states showcasing innovative programs and strategies that could pave the way for future advancements. As we analyze the results, it is clear that the journey towards a more energy-efficient future is ongoing, and each state is uniquely positioned to learn from both successes and challenges faced in this pursuit.
92: Response rate to our requests for data. We sent a total of 108 requests to state energy offices and public utility commissions. This year, we received more feedback than ever before.
States that Rose in Rankings
16: Number of states that rose in the rankings this year. We were happy to see the regional diversity of states moving up the rankings. This proves that energy efficiency has been embraced across the country.
Of course, there are a few numbers we’re not revealing just yet, as we want to keep our readers intrigued and engaged with the findings. Curious how your state ranks in the 2014 State Energy Efficiency Scorecard? This comprehensive analysis sheds light on various energy-saving initiatives and policies across the nation. It paints a vivid picture of progress and opportunities for improvement. Here’s one last number to remember: the overall score reflects not only current performance but also the potential for states to adopt more innovative strategies to enhance energy efficiency for future generations.
5: Number of days until the State Scorecard is released! Follow our Twitter account, @ACEEEdc, for breaking Scorecard news and check our Scorecard landing page on October 22nd for state scores and ranks. You can also find the full report and state score sheets that break down our scoring for each state.
Source: ACEEE: The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy, aceee.org.
