Study: California energy efficiency pays off

Polices to curb consumption have economic stimulus, UC Berkeley prof says

SAN FRANCISCO – California has saved about $56 billion in electricity costs and created 1.5 million jobs over 35 years by using energy more efficiently than other states, according to a new study.

The report released Monday by an economist at the University of California at Berkeley found that state policies that boost energy efficiency aren’t just good for the environment, they’re also good for the economy.

“Energy efficiency is very good for real incomes, purchasing power and job creation,” said the study’s author, UC Berkeley economics professor David Roland-Holst. “Energy efficiency has really helped us stimulate the economy.”

MSNBC