This fact sheet provides information on the variety of energy efficiency policies available to local governments. Local policies related to energy efficiency—those implemented at the scale of a municipality, county, or metropolitan region—can improve community self-reliance, save consumers and citizens money, create local “main street” jobs, catalyze local economic investment, and help protect the environment. The responsibilities of local governments give them large influence over energy use in their communities through land use and zoning, building requirements, property taxes and transfers, transportation investment decisions, economic and workforce development, and, in many cases, the provision of utility services such as water, natural gas, and electricity. Additionally, local governments can lead by example by improving the energy efficiency of their own facilities and operations. Regardless of the specific policies and strategies pursued, local energy-saving actions can result in considerable economic benefits and contribute to achieving many local objectives.
