Electric System Reliability and the Critical Role of Energy Efficiency

This report finds that four programs focused on air-conditioning and lighting improvements could eliminate the need for 100,000 megawatts of electrical capacity — that is, 200 new, large power plants — by 2010. Prepared by the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy and the Regulatory Assistance Project, the report finds that simply adjusting the electrical and cooling systems in commercial buildings could eliminate the need for 40 power plants. The report also recommends tuning up residential air-conditioning systems and encouraging the purchase and installation of more energy-efficient lighting and cooling systems.