After Mid-Term Elections, Something Both Parties Can Agree On and Other News

Last week’s mid-term elections were closely followed by the Alliance. Although not everyone agreed with the results, it’s time to focus on what our Congressional representatives can agree on. As Alliance President Kateri Callahan told the National Journal, energy efficiency policy is the quickest and cheapest way to save both money and energy — something both parties can support.

• The poor economy has government agencies worried about whether they’ll have the budgets to institute energy-efficient measures. Although energy efficiency is a key priority for federal agencies, a poll of 201 government managers conducted by Schneider Electric and the Alliance found that 66 percent think tighter budgets will hinder energy-efficient projects. But all isn’t lost yet! As Senior Vice President of Policy and Research Floyd DesChamps said, there are measures agencies can take that don’t require additional funding. [Environmental Leader, Federal Times, PC World]
• The Alliance has a new friend! Facebook has partnered with the Alliance by donating $500,000 worth of advertising and promoting the Alliance’s new consumer-oriented website LivingEfficiently.org. Here’s to a lasting green friendship. [Mother Nature Network]
• Kateri Callahan headed to North Carolina to chat with college students at Duke University about the future of energy and the lack of consumer awareness. [The Chronicle]
• Efficient windows are a great way to keep the chill out this winter and save on heating bills. Don’t wait too long — as The Morning Call reminded readers, federal tax credits to pay for energy-efficient home improvements up to $1,500 expires on December 31. Don’t get left in the cold!