Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency means using our existing resources wisely.  Idaho enjoys the lowest cost of electricity in the country, largely to due our hydropower legacy. This cheap power fueled growth in Idaho and today it is all claimed by existing users.  But if Idaho needs new power plants they usually are expensive, emit more pollution, impact sage-grouse and other important wildlife, and degrade Idaho's scenic beauty. 

To avoid rising energy bills, protect our natural resources and promote economic development, we in Idaho must use our existing energy resources wisely.  

Being energy efficient does not mean sitting in the dark or sweltering in the heat. Modern compact fluorescent bulbs and LEDs provide the same warm, even light at a fraction of the energy use. Insulated homes stay cool in the summer and warm in the winter, and they use less energy overall. So homes are more comfortable and we pay less for energy.

Investing in energy efficiency is good for our economy too.  Becoming more efficient can mean installing insulation or retrofitting a factory, jobs that stay in our communities.   Using energy wisely will cut your power bill, putting money in your pocket to spend elsewhere.  And businesses with lower power bills are more competitive.  

Because investing in efficiency is good for our economy and our environmentThe Idaho Conservation League takes a three-pronged approach to energy efficiency. 

We work with:

• Utilities to create rebate and incentive programs for all customers
• The Idaho Public Utilities Commission to keep electric rates low yet encourage investments in efficiency
  

• The Idaho Legislature, financial institutions and others to improve access to money for efficiency investments

Electricity rates will continue to rise. New energy infrastructure is the primary cause of rising rates and will harm Idaho's precious natural resources. The cheapest, fastest and cleanest way to avoid these negative effects is to reduce the amount of electricity we use. 

With efficiency, everyone wins!