Posts Categorized: Energy Efficiency Industry

Navigating Uncertainty: Staying Motivated and Inspired by the Growth of Energy Work
by Aileen Villa

“Uncertainty” is probably the single word that I’ve been hearing the most these days in the weeks after the 2024 presidential election. I hear it on work calls about strategy and attempts to set expectations in the energy industry, from concerned small business owners, on phone calls and hangouts with friends, and while having meals with family. Yet, it always resonates.

It helps to be active in my communities and keep my mind occupied with other tasks like reading speculative fiction, though it’s also helped to focus my attention on other maybe seemingly small wins (that I know will have a huge impact!).

Read More
The Human Element: Bringing Trauma Informed Practices to Clean Energy Policy
by Sam Randall

While attending this year’s National Home Performance Conference (NHPC ’24), I was fortunate to have the opportunity to attend a fascinating breakout session that focused on a topic near and dear to me – trauma informed practices.

Facilitated by Habitat for Humanity staff, “Person-Centered, Trauma Informed Home Repair Programming and Approaches” was a highlight of my NPHC ’24 experience.

Read More
Youth Apprenticeship Week: Energy Efficiency Workforce Development
by Aileen Villa

Recently, I had the wonderful opportunity to attend the 2024 Home Performance Conference (HPC) for the second time since entering the energy efficiency industry. This year, I engaged with several sessions in HPC ‘24’s Workforce Development Track. I gained insight from sessions thoughtfully titled “Registered Apprenticeships: Building Career Pathways in Energy Efficiency” and “Youth in Home Performance: What it Takes to Attract and Retain Young People,” among others.

Listening to the folks navigating apprenticeship and training programs in energy was very rewarding. I’m happy to share a bit about some organizations spearheading this important work.

Read More
Empowering Change: Advocating for Diversity in the Energy Efficiency Industry
by Sam Randall

This year’s National Women’s History Month theme celebrates “Women Who Advocate for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion.” As the National Women’s History Alliance explains, this theme discusses how “for a positive future, we need to eliminate bias and discrimination entirely from our lives and institutions.”

This plea resonates with me. Below, I offer thoughts on the intersection of gender and the energy efficiency field, concluding with a call to action to recognize those who advocate for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in your network!

Read More
Workforce Advancements in Energy Efficiency: Heat and Frost Union Apprenticeships
by Aileen Villa

Concentrated efforts in transitioning to clean energy from fossil-fuel-based systems are increasing rapidly. As we make this transition and work toward more advancements in clean energy, building up the energy efficiency workforce is a top priority.

As a newcomer to the energy efficiency industry (coming up on my one-year anniversary of entering the field soon!) with a background in labor justice, I was very drawn to workforce development initiatives across the sector.

Read More
The U.S. Energy Efficiency Workforce: Deep-Dive Annual Insights
by Pat Stanton

I’m proud of my team’s work on our seventh annual energy efficiency (EE) jobs report. Energy Efficiency Jobs in America in 2023 shows 2.2+ million efficiency workers, a number expected to grow annually with new workforce development and training happening across the country. This report focuses on the specially trained builders, electricians and other skilled professionals who focus on making our buildings, appliances, factories and infrastructure run on less energy.

Providing access to consistently-presented EE workforce statistics at regular intervals during this crucial time serves as a key baseline for comparison, as public and private sector infrastructure investments continue to rise.

Read More
#EEDay2023: Energy Efficiency Everywhere All at Once
by Aileen Villa

Each year on the first Wednesday in October, Energy Efficiency Day is widely celebrated. October 4 is your chance to join the campaign not only to proclaim the immense benefits of energy efficiency, but also to highlight all the work being done to advance EE.

You are invited!

Read More
Unparalleled Opportunities Arise for Energy Efficiency Job Growth: Report
by Pat Stanton

Energy efficiency (EE) initiatives are needing increased attention with new federal funds. This translates into more jobs on the way. Energy Efficiency Jobs in America shows there are nearly 2.2 million efficiency workers, and the number will rise as infrastructure investments kick in this year. Making these workforce statistics available now is important, so that we have a baseline for comparison.

Read More
#EEDay2022: Big Advantages, No Regrets
by Carol Harley

October 5 is your chance to be in this year’s big campaign that proclaims energy efficiency’s powerful and lasting benefits. Why raise your voice? Lots of reasons! It’s fun to join the unstoppable force of efficiency (EE) and be among its fans and advocates. It’s free. And it’s meaningful. Join us to celebrate positive news and help advance EE as a powerful force for good.

Read More
Career Spotlights in Energy Efficiency: Jessica Azarelo
by Carina Wallack

“I help clients save money, short and long term, make homes more comfortable, healthier, and happier!” says the founder of Attic Queen, LLC.

Jessica Azarelo is among the more than two million Americans with rewarding careers in the energy efficiency sector.
Read More
Career Spotlights in Energy Efficiency: Jason Denese
by Carina Wallack

“I wanted a job that was exciting and fulfilling,” says Jason Denese of Abode Energy Management. “I was looking for opportunities to grow and learn, and the energy efficiency field provided this.”

Jason took the leap into energy efficiency after a previous career in the casino industry. Read More
Career Spotlights in Energy Efficiency: Yashar Ebady
by Carina Wallack

“We are talking about the future, our kids and grandkids. Energy will always be relevant,” says energy efficiency professional Yashar Ebady. “It is imperative that we collaborate on all levels around the topic of energy.” Read More
Women Leaders Aim for a More Representative Energy Efficiency Industry
by Carina Wallack

“As a Latina-mom, an entrepreneur, an employer, and a community member, I am always looking to expand access for people like myself,” says Leticia Colon de Mejias, who started Energy Efficiencies Solutions in Connecticut. She’s right. Greater access to the energy efficiency industry is needed.

For Women’s History Month, I want to highlight women driving progress in the energy efficiency industry. I was lucky to connect with generous leaders in the Northeast U.S. who are making enormous contributions. Read More
Energy Efficiency Jobs in America 2021: The Power to Tackle Our Thorniest Issues
by Steve Cowell

Energy Efficiency Jobs in America explores the workforce that comprises the largest part of U.S. energy sector employment. It also shows how energy efficiency has the breadth and depth to tackle our thorniest issues. Efficiency holds the promise of solutions for climate, equity, and economy.

Energy efficiency businesses across the country were gutted by the pandemic. They continue to be impacted by economic and workforce challenges. Yet day after day, efficiency workers — who are unsung heroes — rise to give their best effort. Read More
Rebuilding the Energy Efficiency Workforce
by Steve Cowell

“A year like no other.” Say it anywhere, and you see nods of agreement. In moments of solidarity you can muster a rueful half-smile. We all know that the impacts of 2020 on people’s lives are profound. What about energy efficiency professionals specifically? This community of workers is very much on my mind.
Read More
Faces of EE to COVID: “You might break our stride, but you can’t break our spirit.”
by Pat Stanton

“We will put our best foot forward.”

When I listen to energy efficiency professionals, among their many struggles today I hear determination and grit. People are figuring out what to do next, how to retool and help each other. Online training is a big part of what can happen right now. And new ways of minimal- or no-contact building retrofits are taking shape.

A multitude of voices are asserting we must “build back better” — focus resources and efforts on a clean economy, a healthy and equitable future. Despite the gut-punch reality of job losses revealed last week, EE pros are stepping up to find a possible path forward. Read More
TRCs and Sugar Cookies – a Holiday Review of Cost-effectiveness Testing Practices
by Alaina Boyle

As a home baker, I look forward to the holidays for the opportunity to dust off my cookie recipes — and to enjoy quality time with family and friends. Every December I comb through my recipe box to select the year’s favorites. To find the perfect mix of cookies to share with my family and friends, I like to refine the ingredients and directions in old standards while testing new recipes. Recently – bear with me on this – I’ve noticed that the Database of State Efficiency Screening Practices (DSESP) is a lot like my recipe box. Read More
Smarter Energy Savings: Technology’s Expert Voices
by Carina Wallack
with Jessica Granderson, Greg Marsicek, Jamie Peters, and Kevin DeMaster

Do you think about renewables as the most innovative set of technologies for reducing emissions and meeting customer needs? If so, I want to challenge that perception: Energy efficiency should get more credit, and we’ve got the expert voices to prove it!

New efficient technologies provide less expensive — and more effective — solutions than you may realize. Efficiency reduces energy bills and improves air quality and comfort, while also enabling the success of renewable resources. To meet our nation’s climate goals, efficiency alone can contribute 50 percent of necessary emissions reductions by 2050, according to ACEEE. Read More
Veterans Show Leadership in Energy Efficiency Employment
by Pat Stanton

“If you can low crawl through cold wet mud under concertina wire while live fire shells whiz above your head,” says Rhett Major, “working in a crawlspace or attic is pretty much a piece of cake.” A veteran of the U.S. Army Reserve and National Guard, Rhett now thrives in his energy efficiency career. He is one of more than 230,000 vets who have chosen similar paths. Read More
Three Reasons the Secret’s Out about EE Jobs
by Steve Cowell

Only a few of us knew the secret at first. You’ve heard it by now though, as more and more people catch the knowledge: Energy efficiency is a solution that grows jobs and builds careers as it contributes to local economies. By local, I refer to essentially every county across the United States. Energy efficiency now supports an American workforce of more than 2.3 million people, and continues rising.

I am excited to share great news with you: Our 2019 Energy Efficiency Jobs in America is now available. It offers granular details you will find useful and valuable if you care about helping to advance clean energy, as I do. Read More
Momentum Builds for Energy Efficiency
Workforce Unites to Accelerate Positive Change
by Pat Stanton

If “energy efficiency” conjures light bulb rebate programs in your mind, you may be surprised to discover the strength of the energy efficiency industry — and how it continues building. Professionals who provide efficiency services and products are EE pros now gaining a voice and an identity. Read More
Orchestrating a Better Outcome
New Playbook Offers Guidance on “Energy-Plus-Health” Programs

by Julie Michals and Ellen Tohn

Twentieth-century music giant Sergei Prokofiev wrote the timeless Peter and the Wolf to help teach about the orchestra. We thought it fitting to use Prokofiev’s approach to tell a story. But in place of Peter (his grandfather, the bird, cat, duck, wolf and hunter – all represented by types of instruments) our focus is the potential for energy efficiency and health care industries to play “music” together. (Perhaps a stretch, but stay with us . . .) Read More
Career Pathways to Energy Efficiency Jobs: Apprenticeships
by Carina Wallack

“The time to join a fast growing, rewarding career has never been better,” says HVAC professional Chris Morin. “Every home needs these professional skills, most of which do not require a higher education and mountains of debt to attain… [The energy efficiency industry] is a great choice for those interested in a career move to a skill that cannot be outsourced by robotics.”

For those seeking stable jobs with opportunities for social and environmental impact, apprenticeships in the energy efficiency (EE) field are a good option. Energy efficiency professionals are everywhere, with varied roles. Read More
Clean Energy Jobs Begin Heating Up Coal Country
by Pat Stanton

“I will always be a coal miner at heart,” Scott Shoupe says, “but we have to acknowledge where it is and the true impacts of coal for the future. I want to take my wealth of knowledge and bring change to my communities.”
Read More
Spotlight on Women in Energy Efficiency
by Audrey Bragg

“I think it’s just my personality that allows me to be fearless and put myself in gender-unbalanced situations,” says Stephanie Bassler. “I am doing my best, and I let that speak for itself.” How many of us have heard women’s stories similar to Stephanie’s?

To celebrate Women’s History Month, my staff asked women to reflect on their career roles in energy efficiency (EE). Read More
Gliding into the New Year. . .
New Case Studies & Resources Help States to Apply the NSPM

by Julie Michals

Finding the “sweet spot” in skate skiing requires maximizing the efficiency of your glide. This requires balance – shifting your weight from one foot to the other to stay on top of your skis – as well as engaging your core, lifting your poles high, and keeping your head up so you can see what the trail brings ahead. Along with building endurance, mastering the glide makes it easier to ski up the mountain at a smooth pace, with the reward of a fast and fun descent awaiting on the other side. It takes time and patience to learn proper skate skiing technique, which I continue to work on despite years of practice. Read More
Construction Jobs Significant in U.S. Energy Efficiency Employment
by Pat Stanton

Since early September, I have been eager to share findings from our recently released Energy Efficiency Jobs in America report. One key fact that surfaced is the importance of construction work in the energy efficiency (EE) industry. Overall, 2.25 million Americans are employed in EE. Of these workers, 1.27 million are employed in construction.*

Did you know that 1 in 6 of all United States construction workers spend 50% or more of their time on EE-related tasks? People may think that careers in efficiency are limited to changing light bulbs and installing insulation. But we’ve discovered that most EE construction work is related to installing high efficiency heating and cooling / HVAC systems. Read More
Veterans Rock Energy Efficiency Jobs
by Pat Stanton

Every workday, 2.25 million American energy efficiency professionals are on the job.^[i] Many install insulation and advanced building controls and improve HVAC systems. Their work isn’t always recognized, but I strongly believe that it should be! For starters, energy efficiency (EE) cuts waste and costs while improving health and comfort.

NOTE: See the current version of Energy Efficiency Jobs in America for updated statistics.

Our new report, Energy Efficiency Jobs in America, offers insights about EE companies and workers. I was surprised to learn that although only six percent of the U.S. workforce are veterans, eleven percent of energy efficiency workers are veterans. Read More
Energy Efficiency Jobs: USA’s Powerhouse
by Steve Cowell

News flash! The U.S. energy efficiency industry is becoming known as a jobs powerhouse. Why? Because it now supports a workforce of 2.25 million and continues to increase. I feel honored to spread this good news that buoys us beyond politics to unite a focus on the positive.

Our new report, Energy Efficiency Jobs in America, articulates the scale and scope of jobs across the country, with details for all 50 states. Energy efficiency (EE) is the largest sector in the U.S. clean energy economy. Read More
Guest Blog: Saving money and changing lives through energy efficient solutions

Derrick Blue is Interim CEO at Tampa Hillsborough Action Plan.

A major report shows that there are now more than 119,000 energy jobs in Florida. The vast majority of these—more than 112,000—are energy efficiency jobs. But what are those jobs?

You might be surprised to learn that energy efficiency employs plumbers, carpenters and other skilled workers in the building trades. I should know—I employ and contract with dozens of them.
Read More
Guest Blog: Energy efficient homes save money, build careers, contribute to economy

Dennis Brachfeld is the owner of AboutSavingHeat.Com.

Like millions of Coloradans, my love for the great outdoors and winter sports brought me to the Mile-High City. But it was skyrocketing energy costs during the 1970s oil crisis that inspired me to make a career out of reducing energy waste, while helping our environment.

Today, energy efficiency is paving the way to a prosperous future by creating new, stable, good paying jobs, helping millions save money, and decreasing our energy waste. In 2018 a nationwide report shows there are more than 32,000 energy efficiency jobs here in Colorado alone—a seven percent increase from a year ago. Careers in the energy efficiency industry are wide ranging, including electricians, carpenters, plumbers and construction workers. Read More
Guest Blog: Why waste energy you don’t have to?

William A. Lippy is President and CEO of Fi-Foil Company.

Florida has made significant economic gains since the great recession wreaked havoc across America a decade ago. One area where the Sunshine State has experienced tremendous growth is in the clean energy industry, which includes renewable power and energy efficiency. Today, the energy efficiency industry is paving the way for good-paying, stable jobs while at the same time reducing energy costs and dependence on fossil fuels.
Read More
Staying Cool with the NSPM: States Wade into Deeper Waters
by Julie Michals

It’s been over a year since NESP published the groundbreaking National Standard Practice Manual (NSPM). After months of ongoing state outreach to build understanding of the NSPM, stakeholder interest is intensifying. Some jurisdictions are “dipping their toes in,” while others are venturing from shallow to deeper waters. New developments in NSPM awareness and application show states taking the NSPM from theory to practice around the country. Read More
Defend Vital Energy Efficiency Funding
by Steve Cowell

The White House budget proposed devastating cuts to key U.S. energy efficiency programs. Eighty percent of FY19 program dollars could be in real danger. Although a FY’18 omnibus bill succeeded in funding the remainder of this year,* the fight for FY’19 is just beginning. If you believe, as I do, that energy efficiency brings lasting benefits to all Americans please make your voice heard now.
Read More
Taking Stock: NSPM Makes Quiet Inroads
by Julie Michals

The year 2017 will likely be remembered as an exciting one for our U.S. electricity industry. Developing technological advances, innovations, and emerging opportunities — largely in the distributed energy area – plus tackling regulatory barriers and testing new policies, programs, rate designs, are among the year’s headlines. Add the federal energy regulatory/political frenzy (aka FERC NOPR), and 2017 became a whirlwind of change and challenges.
Read More
Making the Case for Energy Efficiency
by Pat Stanton

It can be tough to get the ear of a policymaker. One of the best ways is by sharing stories of how their work can affect real people. Our “Faces of EE” initiative collects photos and testimonials of energy efficiency workers across the U.S. Faces of EE promotes the fact that “EE” means more than clean air and a stable grid; it means jobs and economic growth.

Read More
United We Work: Together, a Force for Good
by Steve Cowell

The business case for energy efficiency is well-proven. Compelling evidence shows that EE prevents energy waste and lowers costs — in homes, and in commercial, industrial and institutional buildings. EE serves as a “baseload plant,” by reducing overall energy use. It’s reliable and resilient. And energy efficiency is an economic turbocharger. A key aspect of economic benefit is the massive jobs boost from the EE sector. My team is spearheading Faces of EE to introduce energy efficiency’s 2.2 million U.S. workers.
Read More
#EEDay2017 is Coming!
by Carol Harley

Are you ready? We hope if you are reading this, you have already signed up for #EEDay2017. October 5 marks the second-annual campaign proclaiming energy efficiency’s powerful benefits. This year, we’re all about jobs and brighter solutions.

Efficiency is the cleanest, fastest, and most cost-effective energy solution. It’s also a job-creation powerhouse. Follow @FacesofEE on Twitter to meet some of the 2.2 million energy pros who work in energy efficiency.
Read More
Pollinating a Framework for Cost-Effectiveness Testing
by Julie Michals

Bees and pollination have been on my mind lately. Summer months bring the enjoyment of sampling honey at the local farmers’ market, but more importantly, I’ve learned new things about bees from my daughter’s recent robotics team project — specifically, how much bees matter to humans and how their vitality is at issue.* As I observe bees moving from plant to plant in my garden, their process reminds me of the pollination we humans practice with sharing information. I’ve been in the thick of such a process for a few months, spreading the word about the recently published National Standard Practice Manual (NSPM).
Read More
A New Lens for Assessing Cost-Effectiveness
by Julie Michals

The issue of determining the cost-effectiveness of energy efficiency resources has long been a complicated and sometimes contentious topic. Despite the perception that virtually all states nominally use some version of the tests identified decades ago by California, actual practice has been inconsistent and often subject to debate.
Read More
Spotlight: Bright Ideas Gain Receptive Audience in DC

by Gabe Epstein

The Friday of Independence Day weekend I had the pleasure of educating D.C. lawmakers on a few of E4TheFuture’s initiatives. I mean, what’s more patriotic than asserting your democratic rights by visiting elected officials to discuss energy efficiency and renewable technology?

Read More
Clean Energy in Today’s Political Climate: Businesses Double Down
by Rachel Ehrman

The mood in the room was one of fierce determination.

“It’s not a matter of politics…it’s about economics and humanity,” Mindy Lubber’s opening remarks drew a standing ovation from 600+ Ceres Conference attendees – from Fortune 500 companies and investors to U.S. non-profit organizations. As I rose from my seat in the room, I knew it was clear that I was among
Read More
Healthy Housing – an Emerging Field in Home Performance
by Julie Michals

People flocked to healthy homes sessions at the Home Performance Coalition’s largest-ever conference last month. Non-energy benefits associated with energy efficiency upgrades have long been discussed, but this was the first time an HPC conference track was devoted exclusively to healthy housing and indoor air quality (IAQ).

Read More
Three Reasons You Should Sign a Letter to Save EE Funding
by Steve Cowell

I am passionate about energy efficiency because I’ve seen the results. People’s lives improve on so many levels, when they attend to their homes and buildings. And energy efficiency’s momentum has risen dramatically over the past couple of years. It’s good for both economic and personal health.

Read More
NEER Public Comment Period Begins April 2017
by Audrey Bragg

Energy efficiency is the largest sector in our massive clean energy economy–representing 3/4 of U.S. clean energy jobs. The National Energy Efficiency Registry (NEER) aims to make a good thing even better. Starting this month until May 31st, you can add your voice to the process of crafting this registry so that it works best for all people and purposes.

Read More
Maryland’s Attempt to Address Dirty Energy Imports
by Susan Buchan

Maryland House Bill 1282 was a long shot. It would have provided the basis for Maryland’s PUC to address one of the most under-reported and elusive issues facing states concerned about climate: emissions from dirty, imported energy. The bill sought to “require the Public Service Commission to study and make recommendations about establishing a program to address carbon pollution attributed to electricity generated out-of-state but consumed within the State.”
Read More
Energy Efficiency Succeeds in the ISO-NE Forward Capacity Market
by Pat Stanton

This month, the Independent System Operator of New England (ISO-NE) completed its eleventh Forward Capacity Auction (FCA 11). The auction enabled procurement of sufficient resources to meet electricity demand in 2020-2021. A total of 640 megawatts (MW) of new energy efficiency (EE) and demand-reduction (DR) measures cleared – an amount ISO-NE describes in its news release as “the equivalent of a large power plant.” Clean renewable generation will also be delivering new capacity in FCA 11, with wind providing 137 MW and solar 66 MW.

Read More
Bringing Energy Efficiency to the Table in Wholesale Markets
by Pat Stanton

For the first time, the Federal Energy Regulation Commission (FERC) has proposed a definition of Distributed Energy Resources (DER), a key component of the rapidly evolving electric grid. While identifying several resources as DERs including electric storage and electric vehicles, FERC neglected to name energy efficiency (EE) in its rulemaking notice.
Read More
Energy Efficiency Jobs Matter to U.S.
by Steve Cowell

In 2016 we learned that energy efficiency is even more powerful than we thought. Beyond its use as a proven wise investment for cutting waste and saving dollars, the industry supports 1.9 million U.S. jobs—by far the largest sector in the U.S. clean energy economy. Our new report articulates the scale and scope of these jobs.

Read More
Energy Efficiency is Essential to Achieving NY Clean Energy Goals
by Rachel Ehrman

The Clean Energy Standard (CES) is an exciting step forward for New York to achieve ambitious clean energy goals. The mandate, adopted by the state’s Public Service Commission (PSC) in August, requires 50 percent of New York’s electricity to come from renewable energy sources by 2030. An aggressive phase-in will occur over several years.
Read More
#EEDay2016: Why Start Now?
by Carol Harley

October 5 marks a national milestone: the big inaugural campaign proclaiming energy efficiency’s powerful benefits. Why now? Energy efficiency (EE) fans and advocates may think you’ve heard it all before: “Saving energy saves money”, “The most efficient megawatts are the ones not used”, “Efficiency helps businesses thrive”. Beyond slogans, campaign organizers seek to convey the massive magnitude EE now delivers. So join us to celebrate EE’s good news and to lift the veil on EE’s power.

Read More
Health Benefits of Residential Energy Efficiency
by Julie Michals

E4TheFuture recently commissioned Tohn Environmental Strategies to perform a review and analysis of recent literature documenting residential building energy efficiency-related health impacts. Ellen Tohn’s research team* surveyed 25 studies that relate specifically to energy efficiency (EE) improvements. We will soon share these detailed results.

Read More
National Energy Efficiency Registry Gains Momentum
by Pat Stanton

During the past few months I have been energized by the great work happening to create the National Energy Efficiency Registry (NEER). More than 150 experts have been reviewing the NEER’s draft principles and operating rules to be released for public comment in the spring of 2017. You’re invited to learn more and get ready to add your voice!

Read More
NREL’s ResStock Analysis Takes Large Scale Residential Energy Upgrade Modeling to a New Level
by Susan Buchan

Residential building stock has one unifying trait: it’s different everywhere. Houses vary by climate zone, age, fuel type, construction practices, occupant behavior – just about everything. These variations have long hampered the accuracy of predicting savings for existing homes. With support from the U.S. Department of Energy, researchers at NREL are developing ResStock – a computer model that increases the granularity of analysis for the entire U.S. residential housing stock to an unprecedented level.
Read More