Filed under: Etc., Green Culture, Carbon Offset, Legislation and Policy
Need a model for energy conservation? Look to California
California uses less energy per capita than any other state in the country. According to officials, California has held its per-capita energy consumption steady since 1974 while energy use per person in the country has skyrocketed 50 percent in that time frame. California consumers average less than 7,000 kilowatt hours a year of electricity. The average American burns 12,000 kilowatt-hours. California is also a leader in reducing greenhouse gas emissions while still maintaining economic growth.
Key to California's efforts are mandates, regulations and high prices. As the for the future, California wants to cut auto pollution even more, encourage solar power and cap greenhouse gasses.
Steven Mufson's analysis in the Washington Post examines all of the initiatives California promotes to conserve energy and spur alternative sources. Granted, California has some advantages with its fair weather, but the state is also committed to leading the way in energy conservation and emissions reductions.
[Source: Steven Mufson / Washington Post (subscription required)]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Tim UF 2:00AM (2/19/2007)
it likely also doesnt nurt that their heating/cooling bills arent as high as a place like minneapolis in the winter, or dallas in the summer.
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Phil L. 9:23AM (2/19/2007)
The article makes many references to "per capita energy use" and "energy consumption" - but then only talks about electrical energy use.
Has anyone seen more complete studies that take into acount other energy forms (natural gas, propane, heating oil, etc.)?
And, as one who's natural gas bill will be scary this month (lows in the teens; highs in the 30s), it's comical to compare energy usage without at least some accounting for climate differences.
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shinkangae 12:35PM (2/19/2007)
the average italian burns 3,000 kw/h a year
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