Maine Most Improved State in National Energy Efficiency Ranking

(AUGUSTA) — According to the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE), which released its 2013 Energy Efficiency Scorecard earlier this month, Maine is the most improved state in the nation compared to its position in last year’s energy efficiency ranking.

Maine moved from 25^th place to 16^th in the country overall for energy efficiency, tied with Colorado.

The annual report ranks states on progress in advancing energy efficiency, and provides a broad assessment of policies and programs that improve energy efficiency in homes, businesses, industries, and transportation systems. The score card examines six policy areas in which states typically pursue energy efficiency: utility and “public benefits” programs and policies; transportation policies; building energy codes and compliance; combined heat and power policies; appliance and equipment standards; and state government-led initiatives around energy efficiency.

ACEEE acts as a catalyst to advance energy efficiency policies, programs, technologies, investments, and behaviors throughout the country.

“ACEEE is nationally recognized and well respected in the industry, so this is a significant accomplishment for the state and shows that Maine is moving in the right direction with energy efficiency,” says Michael Stoddard, Executive Director, Efficiency Maine. “Our improved ranking was largely attributed to passage of the Omnibus Energy Bill by the state legislature last session, as well as approval of our Second Triennial Plan for 2014-2016, and the results of our programs.”

The new legislation granted Efficiency Maine expanded authority to use proceeds from the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative to fund thermal measures providing heating solutions for Maine homes and businesses.