ACEEE | American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy
Jun 10, 2014
The Future of the Utility Industry and the Role of Energy Efficiency
The energy utility industry is facing many challenges, with sales stagnating, use of distributed generation growing, infrastructure aging, and environmental regulations tightening. In the past util…
The Future of the Utility Industry and the Role of Energy Efficiency
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The energy utility industry is facing many challenges, with sales stagnating, use of distributed generation growing, infrastructure aging, and environmental regulations tightening. In the past utilities, could make money by serving growing loads and earning returns on the large capital investments they make to serve those loads. Now, with loads barely growing, they will likely need new strategies to meet their fiduciary obligation to provide returns to shareholders.
This study estimates future electric sales under several scenarios, concluding that in the coming two decades sales will either be level, increase modestly or decrease modestly. Even under the most extreme case examined we find that a “death spiral” is unlikely. This study also reviews more than 50 studies and papers on the future role of utilities, identifying 19 options for the future and describing and evaluating each of them. Based on this review we make recommendations for the short, medium and long-terms including on the role of energy efficiency in the utility of the future.
Bridging the Equity Gap for Utility Energy Efficiency Programs
Utility energy efficiency programs have increased investment in low-income households, but significant gaps remain. This report examines spending and savings trends across 48 major U.S. utilities, identifies barriers to expanding low-income programs and highlights policies and program strategies that can improve energy affordability and equitable access to efficiency upgrades.
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.
Home Energy Reports and Beyond: Meeting the Moment with Behavior-Based Energy Efficiency
Home energy report programs, in which utilities provide households with personalized insights into their energy use and tips to lower their bills, are a…
Strategies for Enhancing Resilience and Minimizing Vulnerabilities to Extreme Heat Events
Extreme heat is one of the fastest-growing climate-related hazards in the United States, increasing mortality, straining buildings and energy systems, and amplifying risks for households with limit…
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