A High School Science Club President Who Won a State Election

“Take it from a science club president who managed to get elected [as senator]; I came to D.C. to get things done,” said Sen. Chris Coons (D-Del.) at a recent meeting with Alliance Associates. With his love for science fueling his drive to save energy, this freshman senator is determined to get results for his constituents back in Delaware − especially when it comes to energy efficiency.

On a Mar. 29 reception in Washington, D.C., Coons told Alliance Associates how energy efficiency has impacted his life and his state. At the event – part of the Alliance’s Policy Perspectives series – Coons also discussed his vision for realizing energy efficiency’s full potential.

• Top photo: Alliance President Kateri Callahan thanks Sen. Chris Coons (D-Del.) for sharing what energy efficiency means for to him and his state.

Making Energy Efficiency ‘Sexy’

“My 10-year-old daughter Maggie is a relentless supporter of energy efficiency. From constantly turning off the lights to watching the light bulb standard debates on TV, she follows it all,” revealed Coons, “but my twin sons are much more like the average American; they want to feel comfortable at home without having to do much.” 

While his children represent opposite ends of the spectrum, Coons said energy efficiency advocates must strike a balance to get consumers and businesses on board with saving energy. The key is making the energy efficiency message “sexy,” he said. 

Coons noted that he used engaging messages about energy efficiency while serving as New Castle County Executive. With the help of this consumer-friendly publicity, New Castle joined the Cities for Climate Protection campaign and obtained $3.76 million in DOE Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grants.

•  Photo: Senator Chris Coons speaks about his energy efficiency endeavors at an ASE policy breakfast

Energy Efficiency is Pro-Growth

As a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, Coons sees a bright future for energy efficiency − particularly within a committee known for its bipartisan efforts.

“Energy efficiency is pro-growth and makes sense as bipartisan action. It creates jobs, spurs American innovation and puts money back into consumers’ pockets,” Coons said, adding that he sees Alliance Associates’ work to champion energy efficiency as critical to saving energy on a national scale.