Federal Policy

The Federal case for energy efficiency.

Across the United States, energy bills are rising, electricity demand is straining the grid, and pollution remains high. The need for nationwide policies that cut costs, reduce strain, and tackle emissions is clear, and energy efficiency remains the fastest, cheapest, and cleanest way to meet these challenges.

Since ACEEE was founded over 40 years ago, federal policies like appliance standards, building energy codes, and tax incentives have cut U.S. energy use in half relative to the size of the economy. As electricity demand rises precipitously for the first time in a generation and energy costs skyrocket due to global instability, ACEEE is working to preserve the critical efficiency policies already on the books and develop new approaches that serve the American people.

ACEEE’s federal policy work spans Congress, federal agencies, and the regulatory process. We develop policy recommendations, conduct rigorous economic analysis, and engage directly with lawmakers and administrators to advance the most effective efficiency measures. We track and respond to federal rulemakings on appliance and equipment standards, vehicle standards, and building codes,  working to protect and strengthen the programs that keep energy costs down for American families and businesses.