After a prolonged recession, the U.S. economy is poised for recovery. Economic rebound implies growth and renewal to accompany the ongoing evolution of energy markets, regulations, and techno…
After a prolonged recession, the U.S. economy is poised for recovery. Economic rebound implies growth and renewal to accompany the ongoing evolution of energy markets, regulations, and technologies. Industrial modernization coincides with economic recovery and presents an opportunity to improve the use of energy across the industrial sector. Though industry continues to capture many of the low- and no-cost energy improvement opportunities, future improvements will be increasingly linked to industry’s capital investment activity. Industrial energy program administrators will need a better understanding of capital investment processes as these vary throughout industry. By influencing capital investment decisions, the next generation of energy assistance programs can influence the profile of industrial energy use for years to come.
This report describes industrial capital investment dynamics at two levels. In the first section, macroeconomic indicators are used to segment the manufacturing sector according to growth trends for industrial output and productivity. Patterns in this data suggest priorities and nuances for engaging industry with capital investment energy program initiatives.
The second section describes corporate investment decision-making as it is revealed through a survey of 30 industry stakeholders. The report describes the motivations, perceptions, and impacts of investment decision-making. Respondents also describe industry’s current receptiveness to assistance programs. This study yields a number of critical success factors for implementing energy-related capital investment projects.
Toward Best Practices for Industrial Innovation: Lessons from the Department of Energy’s Industrial Demonstrations Program
This paper highlights a central lesson for policymakers: Industrial innovation requires alignment across government programs (grants, procurement), financing mechanisms (tax credits, loans), and institutional capacity. When these three are backed by sustained commitment from the public sector, private industry, and external stakeholders, the transition from demonstration to deployment becomes viable.
This report identifies pathways for India’s cement industry to decarbonise at a pace compatible with the national climate goal of net-zero emissions by 2070.
Industrial Rate Impacts on Electrification Projects in Illinois and Michigan
New study points to rate structure reforms, supportive programs
Support the Work That Makes Energy Go Further
ACEEE’s independent research and advocacy depend on the support of foundations, businesses, and individuals committed to cutting energy bills, waste, and climate pollution.
