Hartke is testifying at the committee’s hearing on ‘Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Efforts in the US’ Tuesday morning.
“It’s virtually impossible to achieve even modest carbon reduction goals without robust gains in energy efficiency” said Hartke in his written testimony, citing an International Energy Agency estimate that cost-effective energy efficiency measures alone could account for more than 40 percent of the emissions reductions needed to meet the goals of the Paris climate accord.
Hartke argued that the United States has made enormous strides in reducing energy waste, but “despite our gains, energy efficiency remains our greatest energy resource, and the opportunities ahead are even greater than our past accomplishments.”
In his testimony, Hartke presented a series of recommendations for legislative action and oversight of the executive branch to advance energy efficiency. The actions would not only reduce carbon emissions but be an economic boon.
“The good news is that the energy policy solutions, particularly in energy efficiency, double as powerful economic policy” Hartke said. “To those wondering if we can tackle climate change while simultaneously strengthening our economy and global competitiveness, the answer with efficiency is a resounding yes.”
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