New Title Examines Real Potential of Energy Efficiency in GHG Reduction

April 1, 2010 – Some policy makers and businesses still equate high energy consumption with a booming economy.

Not so, says David Goldstein, energy program co-director at the Natural Resource Defense Council and author of the new book, Invisible Energy.

“This book shows how weaknesses in America’s policies toward energy efficiency are a key contributor to the current recession, and how simple changes can promote a sustainable economic recovery.”

Upending most conventional ideas about energy use and the economy, Invisible Energy shows how expanded efforts toward efficiency — supported by new technologies and smarter government regulations — drastically reduce greenhouse emissions.

Arguing that the economy has been hobbled for last 35 years by negative climate and energy policies, this book shows how improved efficiencies will promote greater economic growth, not less, providing significant economic benefits both to consumers and a wide range of businesses.

The longtime Alliance supporter and winner of the prestigious McArthur Fellowship (the “genius award”) is renowned for his work in the energy efficiency arena. Having studied physics with Dr. Art Rosenfeld at the University of California Berkeley, Goldstein — a PhD himself — has led the pack in negotiations for better appliance standards and building codes.

“Very few possess the deep knowledge of energy efficiency policy and practices that David Goldstein has amassed in his career, and fewer still rival his cogent and succinct writing skills,” says Alliance President Kateri Callahan. “I’m certain that his latest book will provide policymakers and businesses alike with the interesting and timely information they need to leverage energy efficiency to yield both sound public policies and substantial returns on investment.”

He has worked for NRDC since 1976, and often attends Alliance board meetings as second in command to NRDC President Frances Beinecke.