Over the summer, ACEEE completely updated the State Energy Efficiency Policy Database, which reflects the current status of energy efficiency at the state level. Recognizing the continuously shifting landscape of state energy policy, ACEEE will continue to revise the database regularly, making a concerted effort to stay abreast of state-level developments. In light of this task, we built a contact network of over 100 stakeholders in state government, regulatory, private, and non-governmental sectors to aid us in identifying the most current state policy information. Over the past few months, the ACEEE policy and utilities programs have been soliciting feedback from the State Network in order to receive the most accurate information for the database. The information on the newly updated database was then used to score the states on the 2009 State Energy Efficiency Scorecard. The State Network will play an increasingly important role over this year as ACEEE continues to improve upon the database and prepares for next year’s Scorecard.

In order to keep the Network engaged with ACEEE, we offer the State Current, a newsletter with succinct analysis of energy efficiency policy and program developments affecting the prospects for energy efficiency at the state level. Members of the Network are encouraged to submit the latest news in their state to be highlighted in the electronic newsletter, which is posted online. The October edition of the State Current breaks down the Scorecard rankings, examines California’s new energy efficiency plan, and describes a major new retrofit program in New York. Those interested in joining the State Network, receiving the State Current, or submitting comments on the State Energy Efficiency Policy Database should contact Michael Sciortino (msciortino@aceee.org; 202-507-4028).