Resource Planning

Relying on Energy Efficiency as Part of Your Portfolio of Energy Resources

ACEEE's 2009 State Energy Efficiency Scorecard shows a growing focus on energy efficiency as a "first fuel," meaning that all cost-effective energy efficiency is acquired before new supply side resources are pursued.

Because utilities engage in long-term planning, the industry is well-suited to make large-scale investments in energy efficiency. However, according to many sources, like the National Action Plan for Energy Efficiency, energy efficiency must be put on a level playing field with supply side investments, in order for large energy savings, and the associated economic and environmental benefits to be realized.

Here, you will find a collection of resources and conversations about integrating energy efficiency into resource plans, who's doing it and how it's done.