The U.S. Is Pulling Back on Energy Efficiency
The New York Times • • business
Key Points:
- The Trump administration is rolling back numerous federal energy-efficiency programs amid rising oil prices due to conflict in Iran and increasing electricity demand driven by climate change and new data centers.
- Experts, including Christine Egan of the Collaborative Labeling and Appliance Standards Program, criticize the timing of these rollbacks as energy prices and demand are both escalating.
- Reduced efficiency standards may lead consumers to use more electricity and gas, increasing costs at a time when electricity prices are rising faster than inflation and gasoline averages $4 per gallon.
- Historically, both Democratic and Republican administrations have implemented regulations since the 1970s to improve fuel efficiency in vehicles, buildings, and appliances to address energy shortages and reduce emissions.
- Energy-efficient products, while sometimes initially more expensive, typically save consumers money over time by lowering energy consumption.
