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There are many tried-and-true tools in the energy efficiency toolbox. Programs in the utility sector that offer customers a variety of rebates, incentives, and technical services totaled more than $7 billion in 2014. In the private market, energy service performance contracts totaled more than $4 billion. And state energy offices loaned more than $74 million in revolving loans.

In addition to his work at RASEI, Paul Komar is a lecturer in the environmental studies program at the University of Colorado Boulder.

As the energy efficiency field grows, the demand for talented and well-trained energy efficiency professionals keeps climbing. Where will these folks come from? Will they have the right skills and knowledge? Will they continue and accelerate the progress we've made in increasing energy efficiency?

14 Awards Presented to Those Who Advance Energy Efficiency

ACEEE is set to release two timely reports on the potential for energy efficiency in Pennsylvania and Ohio. The current state of the economy has crippled many states' budgets, making it difficult for them to cope with increasing unemployment and falling tax revenues. But while darkness looms over the financial sector, the sun is rising on energy efficiency. Energy efficiency can exert a positive force in states' economies by creating new "green collar" jobs while providing relief for consumers faced with rising energy costs.