Study finds big potential energy savings in South

Southern states could meet their electricity needs for the next 20 years without having to build so much as a wind turbine by adopting “aggressive” energy conservation programs, a study released Monday states.

Electricity demand in the South would otherwise grow by 16 percent by 2030, requiring an additional 49 Gigawatts of electricity. That would likely require more nuclear, natural gas and coal plants. But by making energy efficiency improvements in residential homes, commercial properties and at industrial plants, consumers in the South could get by on what they currently have, according to the study, a joint effort by Georgia Institute of Technology and Duke University’s Nicholas Institute for Environmental Policy Solutions.

“We believe the South is rich terrain for energy efficiency,” said Marilyn Brown, of Georgia Tech and a leading author of the report.

The South consists of 16 states and the District of Columbia.

Conservation efforts would do more than prevent the release of more carbon dioxide in the air. Energy efficiency could save consumers $41 billion by 2020 and create 380,000 jobs, the study says.

There is a $2.25 benefit for every $1 invested. The study was paid for by the Southeast Energy Efficiency Alliance.

It may come up in the next several weeks as supporters try to advance a climate bill in the Senate. Democrats are pushing new renewable and energy efficiency standards to lower greenhouse gas emissions along with a cap on carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions.

Historically, members from the Southeast have resisted the mandates because they fear they would raise rates for consumers in their states.