Energy efficiency programs provide substantial social, financial, environmental, and electricity system benefits to customers, utilities, and society. The State Energy and Environment Guide to Action: Energy Efficiency Programs and Resource Standards report is an EPA resource to help states pursue their climate, clean energy, and equity goals. Abt provided research and technical support to EPA on this and other chapters in the Guide to Action series. 

The Energy Efficiency Programs and Resource Standards chapter of the Guide offers insight on the current regulatory landscape, policy examples and considerations, and a summary of action steps that states use to design and implement efficiency programs and energy efficiency resource standards. It offers real-world state examples and actionable insight to policy makers, government agencies, utilities, and community advocates as they design, update, and implement energy efficiency programs and strategies that are aligned with state policy priorities. Energy efficiency programs and resource standards can help states increase investment in energy efficiency programs, advance energy equity, integrate efficiency with demand flexibility, reduce peak demand, and reduce air pollution. Examples of actions that states use to achieve the benefits of energy efficiency include assessing gaps in customer participation and underserved markets, and conducting an inclusive community and stakeholder engagement process.

Abt Global supported these additional chapters of the EPA Guide to Action:

• Electricity Resource Planning and Procurement 
• Electric Utility Regulatory Frameworks and Financial Incentives 
• Interconnection and Net Metering 
• Customer Rates and Data Access 
• Maximizing Grid Investments