The Energy Efficiency and Productivity Benefits of Smart Appliances and ICT-Enabled Networks: An Initial Assessment
The U.S. economy shows signs of weakening. Among the reasons for less vigorous economic activity is the inefficient use of resources—and especially the inefficient use of energy. New informat…
The Energy Efficiency and Productivity Benefits of Smart Appliances and ICT-Enabled Networks: An Initial Assessment
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The U.S. economy shows signs of weakening. Among the reasons for less vigorous economic activity is the inefficient use of resources—and especially the inefficient use of energy. New information and communication technologies (ICT) make possible dramatically reduced costs and higher levels of performance that were unachievable just a decade ago. This report explores the working hypothesis that the United States can enhance its economic productivity and energy efficiency by redirecting larger investments into ICT-enabled networks. Because we lack sufficient data to definitively test this hypothesis, we approach the analysis as a Fermi problem. Our first estimates suggest a potential $600 billion boost in GDP. This productivity benefit is driven, in part, by a 1.1 billion barrel energy efficiency gain that might reduce the nation’s annual energy bill by about $79 billion.
Bridging the Equity Gap for Utility Energy Efficiency Programs
Utility energy efficiency programs have increased investment in low-income households, but significant gaps remain. This report examines spending and savings trends across 48 major U.S. utilities, identifies barriers to expanding low-income programs and highlights policies and program strategies that can improve energy affordability and equitable access to efficiency upgrades.
Efficiency Saves: Cutting Energy Waste Can Save $31,000 per Household
The United States faces interlocking energy challenges: rising home energy bills and gasoline prices; new demand for electricity from data centers and other loads; high greenhouse gas emissions from burning fossil fuels.
Now, a new era of energy efficiency progress in our buildings, transportation, and industry is needed to meet this moment. This wide-ranging study finds a massive opportunity.
Congress Can Cut Freight Costs and Consumer Prices by Addressing Key Issues in the BUILD America 250 Act
The BUILD America 250 Act, advanced by the U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, would eliminate or weaken many programs that help lower transportation …
Home Energy Reports and Beyond: Meeting the Moment with Behavior-Based Energy Efficiency
Home energy report programs, in which utilities provide households with personalized insights into their energy use and tips to lower their bills, are a…
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