Order Code IB10020
CRS Issue Brief for Congress
Received through the CRS Web
Energy Efficiency:
Budget, Oil Conservation, and
Electricity Conservation Issues
Updated October 29, 2004
Fred Sissine
Resources, Science, and Industry Division
Congressional Research Service ˜ The Library of Congress

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CONTENTS
SUMMARY
MOST RECENT DEVELOPMENTS
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
Energy Efficiency Concept
History
DOE’s Strategic and Performance Goals
Energy Efficiency in Omnibus Energy Legislation
Efficiency Standards for Consumer and Commercial Products
Efficiency Goals for Federal Buildings
Tax Incentives for Efficiency and Conservation
Energy Efficiency Tax Revenue Effect
Housing, Funding Authorizations, and Other Provisions
DOE Budget, FY2005
EPA Budget, FY2005
Energy Security
Electricity Demand-Side Management (DSM) and Distributed Power
Energy Conservation to Curb Natural Gas Demand
Vehicle Fuel Efficiency and Oil Conservation
Climate Change: Energy Efficiency’s Role
Electric Industry Restructuring and Conservation
LEGISLATION
CONGRESSIONAL HEARINGS, REPORTS, AND DOCUMENTS
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Energy Efficiency: Budget, Oil Conservation, and
Electricity Conservation Issues
SUMMARY
Energy security, a major driver of federal
for Weatherization.
energy efficiency programs in the past, came
back into play as oil and gas prices rose late in
The Senate Appropriations Committee
the year 2000. The terrorist attack of Septem-
reported the FY2005 Interior bill (S. 2804)
ber 11, 2001, and the Iraq war of 2003 height-
with $854.3 million. It has $580.5 million for
ened concern for energy security and raised
R&D and $273.8 million for grants, of which
further concerns about the vulnerability of
$230.0 million is for Weatherization.
energy infrastructure and the need for alterna-
tive fuels. Further, the 2003 northeast-mid-
In the first session, the H.R. 6 conference
west power blackout, the 2001 power short-
bill had several significant tax and regulatory
ages in California, and the high natural gas
measures for energy efficiency. It did not pass
prices in 2003 brought a renewed emphasis on
the Senate due to concerns about cost and an
energy efficiency and energy conservation to
MTBE “safe harbor” provision.
dampen electricity (and natural gas) demand.
In the second session, S. 2095 was intro-
Also, worldwide emphasis on environ-
duced without the controversial MTBE provi-
mental problems of air and water pollution
sion and with a cost estimated at about half
and global climate change, and the related
that of H.R. 6. S. 2095 has key provisions
development of clean energy technologies in
from H.R. 6: It would set an efficiency stan-
western Europe and Japan, may remain impor-
dard for “standby mode” energy use in battery
tant influences on energy efficiency policy-
chargers and external power supplies; legislate
making. Concern about technology competi-
efficiency standards for certain equipment and
tiveness may also remain a factor in the de-
direct DOE to set a standard by rule for other
bate.
types of equipment; and set higher goals for
efficiency in federal buildings.
In the 108th Congress, debate over energy
efficiency programs has focused on budget,
Also, S. 2095 would create several tax
oil, natural gas, and electricity issues, and
incentives for energy efficiency measures in
provisions in the omnibus energy policy bill,
home construction, home renovation, appli-
S. 2095, H.R. 6, and S. 14/S. 1149.
ances, residential equipment, commercial
buildings, fuel cells, and combined heat and
The Bush Administration’s FY2005
power equipment. Tax incentives for electric
budget request for the Department of Energy’s
vehicles and alternative fuels are also in-
(DOE’s) Energy Efficiency Program seeks
cluded.
$875.9 million, including $543.9 for R&D and
$332.0 million for grants.
P.L. 108-357 provides tax-exempt bonds
for green buildings and reduces the tax deduc-
The House-passed FY2005 Interior
tion for SUVs. P.L. 108-311 extends a tax
appropriations bill (H.R. 4568) has $656.1
credit for electric vehicles and a tax deduction
million for DOE’s Energy Efficiency program,
for clean fuel vehicles. Neither law contains
including $611.0 million for R&D and $45.1
any of the key energy efficiency tax provisions
million for state grants. The House-passed
in H.R. 6, S. 2095, or S. 1637.
Labor appropriations bill has $238.0 million
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MOST RECENT DEVELOPMENTS
On October 28, the President signed the National Defense Authorization Act (H.R.
4200). It reestablishes the Energy Saving Performance Contracts (ESPCs) program in federal
agencies for two years. On October 22, 2004, the President signed the American Jobs
Creation Act (P.L. 108-357, H.R. 4520). It provides tax-exempt bonds for green buildings
and reduces the tax deduction for Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs). The Working Families Tax
Relief Act (P.L. 108-311) extends a tax credit for electric vehicles and a tax deduction for
clean fuel vehicles. Neither law contains any of the key energy efficiency tax provisions in
omnibus energy bills under consideration, H.R. 6, S. 2095, or S. 1637. (For a comparison
of S. 2095 and the conference version of H.R. 6, see “Energy Efficiency in Omnibus Energy
Legislation.”)
P.L. 108-309 (H.J.Res. 107) provides continuing appropriations through November 20,
2004. The Senate Appropriations Committee recommends $854.3 million for DOE’s Energy
Efficiency Program, including $580.5 million for R&D and $230.0 million for
Weatherization. In contrast, the House has approved a total of $894.0 million in two bills,
including $611.0 million for R&D and $238.0 million for Weatherization. (See “DOE
Budget, FY2005” and Table 3.) Also, Section 569(a) of the Senate-passed version (H.R.
4818, S.Rept. 108-346, pp. 146-147) of the Foreign Operations appropriations bill has $180
million for energy efficiency and clean energy in developing countries.
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
Energy Efficiency Concept
Energy efficiency is increased when an energy conversion device, such as a household
appliance, automobile engine, or steam turbine, undergoes a technical change that enables
it to provide the same service (lighting, heating, motor drive) while using less energy. The
energy-saving result of the efficiency improvement is often called “energy conservation.”
The energy efficiency of buildings can be improved through the use of certain materials such
as attic insulation, components such as insulated windows, and design aspects such as solar
orientation and shade tree landscaping. Further, the energy efficiency of communities and
cities can be improved through architectural design, transportation system design, and land
use planning. Thus, energy efficiency involves all aspects of energy production, distribution,
and end-use.
These ideas of “efficiency” and “conservation” contrast with “curtailment,” which
decreases output (e.g., turning down the thermostat) or services (e.g., driving less) to curb
energy use. That is, energy curtailment occurs when saving energy causes a reduction in
services or sacrifice of comfort. Curtailment is often employed as an emergency measure.
Energy efficiency is often viewed as a resource option like coal, oil, or natural gas. In
contrast to supply options, however, the downward pressure on energy prices created by
energy efficiency comes from demand reductions instead of increased supply. As a result,
energy efficiency can reduce resource use and environmental impacts. (See CRS Report
RL31188, Energy Efficiency and the Rebound Effect.)
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History
From 1974 through 1992, Congress established several complementary programs,
primarily at the Department of Energy (DOE), to implement energy saving measures in
virtually every sector of societal activity. These energy efficiency and energy conservation
programs were created originally in response to national oil import security and economic
stability concerns. In the early 1980s, states and utilities took an active role in promoting
energy efficiency as a cost-saving “demand-side management” tool for avoiding expensive
powerplant construction. Since 1988, national interest in energy efficiency has focused
increasingly on energy efficiency as a tool for mitigating environmental problems such as air
pollution and global climate change. This aspect spawned new programs at DOE and at
several other agencies, including the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Agency
for International Development (AID), and the World Bank’s Global Environment Facility
(GEF). Energy efficiency is increasingly viewed as a critical element of sustainable
development and economic growth.
The DOE energy efficiency program includes R&D funding, grants to state and local
governments, and a regulatory framework of appliance efficiency standards and voluntary
guidelines for energy-efficient design in buildings. In addition, its budget supports
regulatory programs for energy efficiency goals in federal agencies and standards for
consumer products. (Detailed descriptions of DOE programs appear in DOE’s FY2005
Congressional Budget Request, DOE/ME-0022, v. 7, February 2004; it appears at
[http://www.cfo.doe.gov/budget/05budget/content/volumes/Volume_7.pdf].)
From FY1973 through FY2002, DOE spent about $11.7 billion in 2003 constant dollars
for energy efficiency R&D, which amounts to about 9% of the total federal spending for
energy supply R&D during that period. In 2003 constant (real) dollars, energy efficiency
R&D funding declined from $795 million in FY1979 to $227 million in FY1988 and then
climbed to $556 million in FY1994. For FY2003, $612 million was appropriated, which is
$56 million, or 9%, above the FY1994 mark in 2003 constant dollars. Also, in 2003 constant
dollars, since FY1973, DOE has spent about $7.7 billion on grants for state and local
conservation programs.
This spending history can be viewed within the context of DOE spending for the three
major energy supply R&D programs: nuclear, fossil, and renewable energy R&D. From
FY1948 through FY1972, in 2003 constant dollars, the federal government spent about $24.3
billion for nuclear (fission and fusion) R&D and about $5.5 billion for fossil energy R&D.
From FY1973 through FY2003, the federal government spent $49.1 billion for nuclear
(fission and fusion), $24.8 billion for fossil, $14.6 billion for renewables, and $11.7 billion
for energy efficiency. Total energy R&D spending from FY1948-FY1998, in 2003 constant
dollars, reached $131.2 billion, including $74.0 billion, or 56%, for nuclear, $30.9 billion,
or 24%, for fossil, $14.6 billion, or 11%, for renewables, and $11.7 billion, or 9%, for energy
efficiency.
DOE’s FY2004 energy efficiency R&D funding totaled $559.7 million, or about 24%
of DOE’s energy R&D appropriation. Renewable energy R&D received $439.4 million
(19%), fossil energy received $672.8 million (29%), and fission and fusion were appropriated
$667.4 million (29%).
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Since 1985, national energy use has climbed about 20 Q (quads — quadrillion Btus,
British thermal units), reaching a record high of 99 Q in 2000. DOE’s 1995 report Energy
Conservation Trends found that energy efficiency and conservation activities from 1973
through 1991 curbed the pre-1973 growth trend in annual primary energy use by about 18
Q, an 18% reduction. In 1992, this was saving the economy about $150 billion annually in
total U.S. energy expenditures, a one-fourth reduction from the previous trend.
DOE’s Strategic and Performance Goals
In 2004, a National Academy of Public Administration (NAPA) study found dramatic
improvement in the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) after a
major reorganization that included new offices for FreedomCAR and Vehicle Technologies
and for Hydrogen, Fuel Cells, and Infrastructure. Information about the new management
structure and other aspects of EERE are available on the DOE website at
[http://www.eere.energy.gov/office_eere/]. The study is available on the NAPA website at
[http://www.napawash.org/Pubs/EERE%20NAPA%20Rpt%20Sept%2004.htm].
A National Research Council report, Energy Research at DOE: Was it Worth It?, found
that from 1978 to 2000 an investment of about $8 billion in DOE’s Energy Efficiency
Programs produced an economic return of at least $30 billion. Areas found short of expected
benefits lacked incentives needed for private-sector adoption.
The President’s Management Agenda set out the Bush Administration’s framework for
performance management based on human capital, competitive sourcing, financial
performance, electronic government, and integration of budget with performance. The
Government Performance and Results Act (GPRA, P.L. 103-62) requires each federal agency
to produce and update a strategic plan linked to annual performance plans.
In DOE’s Strategic Plan of September 2000, energy efficiency objectives and strategies
appear under strategic goal #1, “Energy Resources.” In the DOE Annual Performance Plan
(APP) for FY2004, energy efficiency is addressed under the revised strategic goal #2,
“Energy Conservation and the Environment,” which states “Energy use and greenhouse gas
emissions versus the gross domestic product (GDP) are reduced by 40% by 2025 compared
to 2000 and the growth versus the U.S. population stops by 2025.” In support of Goal 2, the
APP lists five strategic performance goals. ER1-1 says that relative to the 1985 baseline,
DOE’s Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP) will support federal agency efforts to
reduce energy intensity by 30% in 2005 and 35% by 2010. ER 1-2 says that from 1991 to
2010, the Industries Program will reduce energy intensity by 20-25%. ER 1-3 says the
FreedomCAR and Vehicle Technologies Program will achieve several specific vehicle
technical and cost goals through 2010. ER 1-4 says that the Buildings Program will achieve
several specific goals to improve building efficiency through 2009. ER 3-1 puts forth
specific output goals through 2010 for weatherization grants, state grants, Rebuild America,
Energy Star, Clean Cities, and for other programs.
Energy Efficiency in Omnibus Energy Legislation
In the 108th Congress, most legislative action on energy efficiency has focused on
omnibus energy policy bills, S. 1637, S. 2095, H.R. 6, and S. 14/S. 1149. Late in 2003, a
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cloture motion to stop a Senate filibuster on the conference report (H.Rept. 108-375) for H.R.
6 failed (57-40). Key objections cited in Senate debate include budget concerns and the Title
XV “safe harbor” from product liability lawsuits for producers of MTBE (methyl tertiary-
butyl ether), ethanol, and other renewable fuels.
Several significant energy efficiency provisions were included in S. 1637, S. 2095, and
H.R. 6. Key provisions include proposals that would require a DOE rulemaking to set an
efficiency standard for “standby mode” energy use in battery chargers and external power
supplies; legislate standards for certain equipment and direct DOE to set a standard by rule
for other types of equipment; and set goals for efficiency in federal buildings. Other
provisions would create incentives for energy efficiency measures in home construction,
home renovation, appliances, residential equipment, commercial buildings, fuel cells, and
combined heat and power equipment, and for alternative fuels. (For a detailed summary of
provisions in the conference version of H.R. 6, see CRS Report RL32204, and see CRS
Report RL32078, which compares House and Senate versions of H.R. 6 with S. 14. For side-
by-side comparisons of provisions in H.R. 6, see CRS Report RL32033 (non-tax provisions),
CRS Report RL32042 (tax provisions), and CRS Report RL32041 (electricity provisions).
Efficiency Standards for Consumer and Commercial Products
DOE currently sets minimum energy efficiency standards for several consumer and
commercial products, including household appliances such as clothes washers and
refrigerators. S. 2095 (§133) and H.R. 6 (§133) would expand efficiency standards within
three years to cover “standby mode” energy use by battery chargers and external power
supplies. It would also legislate efficiency standards for exit signs, torchieres, traffic signals,
and distribution transformers and call for DOE to set standards by rule for suspended ceiling
fans, vending machines, unit heaters, and commercial refrigerators and freezers. In March
2003 testimony on a draft version of H.R. 6, the American Council for an Energy-Efficient
Economy estimated that these new standards would save more energy than any other
efficiency provisions in H.R. 6. The table below indicates which standards would be set by
law and which would be set by DOE rulemaking.
Standard set:
S. 2095 / H.R. 6 Conference
By law
exit signs, traffic signals, torchieres, distribution transformers,
unit heaters, medium base compact fluorescent lamps
By rule
ceiling fans, vending machines, commercial refrigerators and
freezers, residential furnace fans
Efficiency Goals for Federal Buildings
The purpose of federal efficiency goals is to lead by example in saving energy, reducing
costs, and helping transform markets for new equipment. The past goal had called for a 20%
reduction in federal buildings’ energy use, measured in energy use per square foot (sf), from
1985 to 2000. This goal was exceeded, slightly. S. 2095 (§102) and H.R. 6 (§102) would
set goals for further energy efficiency in federal buildings. Compared to the baseline year
energy use in 2001, the provision sets progressive annual 2% reductions over a 10-year
period from 2004 to 2013, ending with a 20% reduction from baseline. Also, DOE would
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be required to review results by the end of the 10-year period and recommend further goals
for an additional decade. Most of the other provisions for federal programs are
administrative measures that would help agencies achieve the above-described goals.
The historical record shows that congressional buildings have had less focus on energy
efficiency goals than those in the executive branch. To address this, S. 2095 (§101) and H.R.
6 (§101) call for the implementation of a plan for congressional buildings to meet the energy
efficiency goals for federal agencies noted above. The bill also calls for a study of the
potential for energy efficiency and renewables to increase reliability during a power outage
and authorizes up to $2 million.
Tax Incentives for Efficiency and Conservation
Since the late 1970s, there have been some tax incentives to promote fuel switching and
alternative fuels as a way to conserve gasoline and reduce oil import dependence. In
contrast, tax incentives for energy efficiency and for electricity conservation have been rare,
and generally short-lived. The omnibus energy bill proposes some modest new tax
incentives for energy efficiency. It includes tax credits to improve efficiency in new and
existing homes. A table comparing the eligibility requirement, dollar cap, period, and
estimated tax revenue drain for these provisions in H.R. 6 and S. 2095 (S. 1637) is available
from the author.
Other tax incentives in S. 2095 and H.R. 6 cover appliance manufacturers, commercial
buildings, electric utilities, fuel cells, and combined heat and power (CHP). A table
comparing 10-year revenue impacts for these provisions is available from the author.
Also, Sections 1311 to 1317 of S. 2095 (S. 1637) provide $2.28 billion in incentives for
alternative fuels, vehicles, and equipment. Comparable provisions in H.R. 6 (§1313, 1314,
1315, and 1318) provide $2.42 billion.
Energy Efficiency Tax Revenue Effect. Table 1, below compares the estimated
10-year revenue effect of energy efficiency and conservation tax provisions in the conference
version of H.R. 6 and S. 2095. The amounts for S. 2095 are estimated from the scoring for
S. 1149, as reported by committee. Based on industry assessments, the figures for efficiency
exclude the solar/fuel cell credit, which was scored at $448 million.
Table 1. S. 2095 and H.R. 6, Tax Revenue Effect
($ billions)
H.R. 6
S. 2095
Energy Efficiency and Conservation Measures
$ 1.45
$ 1.73
(Excludes diesel fuels, alternative fuels, and solar credit)
Net Total, All Tax Provisions
$23.51
$14.80
Energy Efficiency and Conservation Share of Total
6.2%
11.7%
Source: Joint Tax Committee (JTC), Estimated Revenue Effects of the Conference Agreement for the “Energy
Tax Policy Act of 2003,” November 18, 2003; and JTC, Estimated Revenue Effects of S. 1149 as Reported by
the Committee on Finance, May 30, 2003.
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Housing, Funding Authorizations, and Other Provisions
S. 2095 (and H.R. 6 conference) has provisions (Sections 141-149) for energy efficiency
in public housing. Also, Section 121 authorizes funding for energy assistance (e.g., Low-
Income Home Energy Assistance Program, LIHEAP), and Sections 122 and 123 authorize
grant programs (e.g., DOE Weatherization Program and State Energy Program). Several
other energy efficiency programs are authorized in Title I and Title IX.
DOE Budget, FY2005
The Senate Appropriations Committee reported the FY2005 Interior appropriations bill
(S. 2804, S.Rept. 108-341) with $854.3 million for DOE’s Energy Efficiency Program. It
includes $580.5 million for R&D, which is $30.4 million less than the House bill, and $230.0
million for Weatherization.
In contrast, House action moved Weatherization grant program funding to the Labor,
Health and Human Services, and Education (LHE) appropriations bill. The House-passed
LHE bill (H.R. 5006, H.Rept. 108-636) has $238.0 million (including $11 million from
H.Amdt. 721) for Weatherization. The House-passed Interior bill (H.R. 4568, H.Rept. 108-
542, p. 124) has $656.1 million, with $611.0 million for R&D and $45.1 million for state
grants. Together, the two House bills provide $894.0 million.
The FY2005 budget request (Appendix, p. 397) notes that the “Administration’s energy
efficiency programs have the potential to produce substantial benefits for the nation — both
now and in the future — in terms of economic growth, increased energy security and a
cleaner environment.” In particular, the request says it “continues the Hydrogen Fuel
Initiative to accelerate the worldwide availability and affordability of hydrogen-powered fuel
cell vehicles.”
As Table 3 shows, the request seeks $875.9 million for energy efficiency, which is $2.1
million, or 0.2%, less (excluding inflation) than the FY2004 appropriation. The funding
request includes $64.0 million more for Weatherization grants, $12.3 million more for
Hydrogen (for validation and stack components), and $5.0 million more for Program
Direction. However, it would cut Industrial Technologies by $35.0 million (mainly specific
industries), Vehicle Technologies by $21.3 million (mainly Advanced Combustion and Fuels
Technology), and Distributed Energy Resources by $7.9 million. Terminations and zero
appropriations include FreedomCAR Peer Review, Oil Heat Research, FEMP Management
Support, Cooperative Programs, and congressional earmarks.
For further information on the Energy Conservation Budget, see the website at
[http://www.cfo.doe.gov/budget/04budget/]. For further information on Energy Conservation
Programs, see the website at [http://www.eere.energy.gov/].
EPA Budget, FY2005
The FY2005 request for EPA’s Climate Protection Programs (CPP) is $125.7 million,
which would be a $9.1 million increase over the FY2004 appropriation. For specific
programs, the request includes $1.1 million less for Buildings and $0.5 million less for
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Transportation. It also includes $1.6 million more for Industry and $0.8 million more for
International Capacity Building.
EPA conducts its CPP programs under the Office of Atmospheric Programs, with
funding from appropriation accounts for Environmental Programs and Management (EPM)
and Science and Technology (S&T). EPA’s CPP programs focus mainly on voluntary energy
efficiency activities. These programs include Green Lights, Energy Star Buildings, Energy
Star Products, Climate Wise, and Transportation Partners. They involve public-private
partnerships that promote energy-efficient lighting, buildings, and office equipment. Efforts
also include information dissemination and other activities to overcome market barriers.
Table 2. EPA Funding for Climate Protection
Energy Efficiency Programs (CPP)
($ millions current)
FY2001
FY2002
FY2003
FY2004
FY2005
FY2005
Percent
Enacted
Enacted
Enacted
Appn.
Request
-FY2004
Diff.
CPP Buildings
52.5
48.6
49.8
48.3
47.2
-1.12
-2.3%
CPP Transport.
29.4
30.8
21.6
22.9
22.4
-0.53
-2.3%
CPP Industry
31.9
25.4
25.7
26.4
28.0
1.56
5.9%
CPP Carbon Rem.
1.0
1.5
1.6
1.7
1.7
-0.03
-2.0%
CPP State / Local
2.5
2.2
2.3
2.6
2.6
0.03
1.2%
CPP Int’l Cap.
5.5
7.0
7.1
6.6
7.4
0.79
12.0%
CPP Int’l Partner.
——
——
——
——
——
——
——
CPP Int’l Coop’n
0.8
——
——
——
——
——
——
CPP Other
——
8.4
7.2
8.0
16.4
8.43
105.8%
CPP,
123.6
123.9
115.2
116.6
125.7
9.12
7.8%
SUBTOTAL
Climate Chg Rsch
22.6
21.4
21.7
21.5
20.6
-0.93
-4.3%
TOTAL
146.2
145.3
137.0
138.1
146.3
8.19
5.9%
Source: Personal communication with Ed Callahan, EPA, Feb. 4, 2004; EPA FY2005 Congressional
Justification; and previous EPA budget justifications.
Energy Security
The September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks focused national attention on developing a
strategy to address the vulnerabilities of energy systems and other essential services. The
Department of Homeland Security (DHS, P.L. 107-296) includes offices and programs
(Infrastructure Protection, Energy Security and Assurance) responsible for measures to
protect energy infrastructure, including power plants, transmission lines, oil refineries, oil
storage tanks, oil and natural gas pipelines, and other energy infrastructure. By reducing the
demand for fuels and electricity, energy efficiency measures may contribute to energy
security by slowing growth in the number of energy facilities and amount of other energy
infrastructure. It can also reduce the risk of oil shortages, energy price shocks, and attendant
impacts on the national economy. Some of the possible ways that energy efficiency can
improve energy security are described in U.S. Energy Security Facts (available at
[http://www.rmi.org/images/other/EnergySecurity/S03-04_USESFtext.pdf]).
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Electricity Demand-Side Management (DSM) and Distributed Power
The August 2003 electric power blackout that affected several states and Canadian
provinces rekindled interest in energy efficiency, energy conservation/demand response
measures, and distributed power generation. The use of energy-efficient appliances and other
end-use equipment can reduce electricity demand, which drives the need for new power
plants. Further, the development of small, modular “distributed energy” systems (also
referred to as distributed generation and distributed power) under DOE’s program may help
reduce the security risk by decentralizing energy facilities and establishing some facilities
off-grid. Also, the “response and recovery” element in the President’s DHS proposal calls
for it to “ensure rapid restoration of transportation systems, energy production, transmission,
and distribution systems....” The deployment of smaller, highly mobile distributed energy
equipment may help address this aspect of energy security. H.R. 6 and S. 14 have provisions
for distributed energy. (For more on distributed energy see the DOE website at
[http://www.eere.energy.gov/EE/power_distributed_generation.html] and at [http://www.
eere.energy.gov/distributedpower/].)
Energy Conservation to Curb Natural Gas Demand
The Secretary of Energy requested that the National Petroleum Council (NPC) report
on policy options to address the problem of high natural gas prices. The draft report,
Balancing Natural Gas Policy, says gas prices could average from $5 to $7 per thousand
cubic feet for years to come, and it concludes, among other options, that energy conservation
and greater energy efficiency have the biggest immediate potential to hold down prices. The
report recommends updating building codes and equipment standards, promoting Energy Star
equipment, using the most efficient power plants, deploying distributed energy, installing
smart controls, and employing best practices for low-income weatherization. The Alliance
to Save Energy applauds these policy suggestions, but raises a concern that other policy
measures it had recommended — including tax incentives, utility performance standards,
federal buildings improvements, and regulations to make energy conservation profitable for
utilities — were not included among the report’s suggestions. Also, a report by the
American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE), Natural Gas Price Effects
of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Practices and Policies, says that in one year, a
massive energy efficiency effort could be put in place that would reduce gas use by 1.9% and
cut prices by 20%. (The NPC report is at [http://www.npc.org/] and the ACEEE report is at
[http://www.aceee.org/energy/efnatgas-study.htm].)
Vehicle Fuel Efficiency and Oil Conservation
Energy efficiency measures to curb oil demand, and other oil conservation measures,
may help address energy security, economic issues such as high gasoline prices and oil
import dependence, and environmental issues such as air pollution, climate change, and the
proposal to develop oil in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR).
For the ANWR issue, technology-driven improvements to the fuel economy of cars and
light trucks — without any change to the Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standard
— might save more fuel than would likely be produced by oil drilling in ANWR, although
the two options are not mutually exclusive. The Energy Information Administration (EIA)
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says that a technology-driven projection for cars and light trucks could increase fuel economy
by 3.6 mpg by 2020. Through the first 20 years, this increase would generate oil savings
equivalent to four times the low case and three-fourths of the high case projected for ANWR
oil production. Extended through 50 years, the fuel economy savings would range from 10
times the low case to more than double the high case for ANWR. (For more information on
this issue, see CRS Report RL31033, Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Fuel
Equivalents to Potential Oil Production from the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge).
CAFE is a key federal regulatory policy that had instituted a gradual ramp-up of fuel
efficiency for newly manufactured cars and light trucks. The present CAFE standard for new
cars is 27.5 mpg. The national fleet fuel economy for cars peaked at 21.1 mpg in 1991,
declined slightly, and then climbed to 22.1 mpg in 2001. Similarly, light trucks peaked at
16.9 mpg in 1991, declined slightly, and then reached 17.6 in 2001. A floor amendment to
S. 14 on fuel economy failed to pass. (For more on CAFE standards, see CRS Issue Brief
IB90122, Automobile and Light Truck Fuel Economy: Is CAFE up to Standards?)
A December 2003 report by the Congressional Budget Office (CBO), The Economic
Costs of Fuel Economy Standards Versus a Gasoline Tax, found that a 46-cent-per-gallon
gasoline tax increase would achieve a 10% reduction in fuel use at a cost that is 3% less than
the cost of creating a higher CAFE standard with or without credit trading.
In his January 2003 State of the Union Speech, President Bush announced $720 million
in new funding for a hydrogen fuel initiative to accelerate the use of fuel cells for
transportation and power generation. Fuel cells can reduce gasoline (hence oil) use due to
the ability to employ hydrogen-rich fuels, such as natural gas and alcohol fuels. The
initiative builds on the Administration’s Freedom Cooperative Automobile Research
(FreedomCAR) Program. FreedomCAR creates a partnership with the auto industry to
develop a fuel-cell-powered vehicle that would attain commercial use during 2010 to 2020.
This program is funded primarily by DOE’s Fuel Cell Technologies Program (see Table 3)
but includes some funding from other agencies. (For more details on FreedomCAR see CRS
Report RS21442, Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Vehicle R&D: FreedomCAR and the President’s
Hydrogen Fuel Initiative.)
Oil use for gasoline, home heating, and other applications makes it important to the
transportation and production sectors of the nation’s economy. Thus, fluctuating oil prices
and dependence on imported sources can create economic vulnerabilities. Also, oil use has
important environmental impacts. Its extraction and transport can lead to spills that pollute
land and water. Further, oil-based fuels, such as gasoline, generate sulphur dioxide and other
air pollutants as well as large amounts of carbon dioxide that contribute to climate change.
U.S. oil use accounts for about 26% (2000) of the world’s oil consumption and about
40% (2002) of total U.S. energy use. The nation uses (2002) about 19.6 million barrels of
oil per day (mb/d), of which about 13.8 mb/d is used for transportation, including 4.7 mb/d
for cars and 3.4 mb/d for light trucks (includes pickups, minivans, and sport utility vehicles).

Oil use in transportation can also be reduced through short-term conservation measures
such as increased use of public transit, carpooling and ridesharing, and telecommuting; and
through curtailment (e.g., driving less) and substitution of alternative fuels. Other measures
can help reduce non-transportation oil uses. For example, home improvement measures such
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as insulation, energy-efficient windows, and weatherization measures can reduce the use of
home heating oil.
Climate Change: Energy Efficiency’s Role
The FY2004 Foreign Operations, Export Financing, and Related Programs
Appropriations Bill (P.L. 108-199, Division D, Section 555) provides $180 million for
“energy conservation, energy efficiency, and clean energy” to reduce greenhouse gas
emissions in developing countries.
DOE’s November 2003 report U.S. Climate Change Technology Program —
Technology Options for the Near and Long Term compiles information from multiple federal
agencies on more than 80 technologies. For these end-use and supply technologies, the
report describes President Bush’s initiatives and R&D goals for advancing technology
development, but it does not estimate emissions saving potentials, as some previous DOE
reports on the topic had presented.
Energy efficiency is seen as a key means to reduce fossil fuel-induced carbon dioxide
(CO2) emissions that may contribute to global climate change. Thus, recent debates over the
U.S. role in the Kyoto Protocol and related international negotiations to curb global
emissions of greenhouse gases tend to be reflected in deliberations over federal funding and
incentives for energy efficiency.
In fulfilling requirements under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate
Change (UNFCCC), EPA issued the third U.S. climate report to the United Nations entitled
Climate Action Report 2002. In it, the Bush Administration commits to reducing greenhouse
gas intensity (emissions per unit of GDP) by 18% (4% more than under existing policies)
over 10 years through a combination of voluntary, incentive-based, and existing mandatory
measures focused on energy efficiency and other measures. This is projected to attain a 4.5%
reduction from forecast emissions in 2012. The Administration has proposed this policy in
place of the Kyoto Protocol, which it opposes due to concerns that it could raise energy
prices and slow economic growth. Further, the Administration has stated its intent to support
funding for energy efficiency and renewable energy programs at DOE and at the Global
Environment Facility.
The 2001 White House Initial Review on Climate Change cites an existing array of
energy efficiency and other programs that support goals of the UNFCCC and refers to the
National Energy Policy (NEP) report’s provisions for CHP, CAFE, Energy Star, and other
energy efficiency policies as part of the foundation for its strategy to curb greenhouse gas
(GHG) emissions.
The Kyoto Protocol had called for the United States to cut GHG emissions to 7% below
the 1990 level during the period from 2008 to 2012. At the Seventh Conference of Parties
(COP-7) in 2001, the United States was accused of avoiding real efforts to reduce emissions,
through energy efficiency and other means, in order to address the Kyoto Protocol. At COP-
9 in 2003, the parties resolved to prepare for the Protocol’s enactment, implement measures
such as energy efficiency to help decouple economic growth and emissions growth, and the
European Union and several nations pledged $410 million annually for two funds focused
on mitigation measures for developing nations.
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DOE’s 2000 report Scenarios for a Clean Energy Future shows the potential for
advanced energy efficiency and other measures to cut two-thirds of the projected U.S. carbon
emissions growth by 2010 and to cut emissions to the 1990 level by 2020. Assuming no
major future policy actions, the reference case scenario in the EIA’s January 2003 Annual
Energy Outlook 2003 projects 2010 emissions will be 1,800 MMTC, 32% more than that for
1990. DOE’s 1995 report Energy Conservation Trends shows that energy efficiency has
reduced long-term rates of fossil energy use and thereby curbed emissions of CO2
significantly. (For details about the potential for energy efficiency to reduce CO2 emissions,
see CRS Report RL30414, Global Climate Change: The Role for Energy Efficiency.)
On September 24, 2004, the California Air Resources Board approved a plan that would
require automobile manufacturers to cut carbon dioxide and other GHG emissions 22% by
2012. This could force automakers to increase fuel efficiency sharply. An industry court
challenge is possible. Seven northeastern states have adopted other auto emission regulations
by California. Also, as part of its effort to meet Kyoto goals, Canada may consider fuel
economy standards as a strategy to reduce GHG.
Electric Industry Restructuring and Conservation
The debate over the federal role in restructuring includes questions about energy
efficiency. The 2001 electricity problems in California raised the issue of whether a federal
role is needed to encourage demand-side energy efficiency and load management measures.
A June 2002 report (#49733) by the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, California
Consumers Kept Lights on During Electricity Crisis by Conserving and Investing in Efficient
Equipment, found that conservation and efficiency measures reduced summer 2001 peak
demand by 10%, increased system reliability, avoided some wholesale power purchases, and
avoided $2 billion to $20 billion in potential losses from rolling blackouts. Energy Efficiency
Leadership in California, an April 2003 report by the Natural Resources Defense Council
and Silicon Valley Manufacturing Group, uses California Energy Commission data to project
that additional efficiency measures could reduce electric demand by 5,900 megawatts (MW)
and save $12 billion over the next 10 years.
Many states and electric utilities created demand-side management (DSM) programs
to promote energy efficiency and other activities as a less costly alternative to new supply.
DSM became a significant part of the nation’s energy efficiency effort. Utility DSM spending
peaked in 1994 at $2.7 billion and DSM energy savings peaked in 1996 at 61 billion
kilowatt-hours (which is equivalent to the output from 12 one-gigawatt powerplants).
After California issued its 1994 proposal for electric industry restructuring, many states
and utilities reduced DSM efforts. By 1998, utility DSM spending had fallen to about $1.4
billion. In response, some states, such as California, include provisions for energy efficiency
and conservation in their restructuring legislation. For example, California’s law (A.B. 1890,
Article 7) placed a “public goods” charge on all electricity bills from 1998 through 2001 that
provided $872 million for “cost effective” energy efficiency and conservation programs.
Other states, such as Pennsylvania, have few if any provisions for energy efficiency.
(For a discussion of broader electricity restructuring issues, see CRS Issue Brief
IB10006, Electricity: The Road Toward Restructuring.)
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LEGISLATION
P.L. 108-108 (H.R. 2691)
Department of Interior and Related Agencies Appropriations bill, 2004. Makes
appropriations for DOE Energy Efficiency Program. House bill reported (H.Rept. 108-195)
July 10, 2003. President signed into law November 10, 2003.
P.L. 108-199 (H.R. 2673)
Consolidated Appropriations Bill, 2004. Division A contains the Agriculture
Appropriations Bill, 2004. House bill reported (H.Rept. 108-193) July 9, 2003. Passed
House July 14. Passed Senate November 6, without report. Conference reported
Consolidated bill November 25. House approved December 8. Senate approved January 22,
2004. Signed into law January 23, 2004.
P.L. 108-199 (Division D, Foreign Operations Appropriations Bill)
Consolidated Appropriations Bill, FY2004. Division D contains the Foreign
Operations, Export Financing, and Related Programs Appropriations Bill, 2004. Section 555
on Environment Programs provides $180 million for “energy conservation, energy efficiency,
and clean energy” in developing countries to reduce greenhouse gases.
P.L. 108-199 (Division G, VA-HUD Appropriations Bill)
Consolidated Appropriations Bill, FY2004. Division D contains the Veterans Affairs
and Housing and Urban Development, and Independent Agencies Appropriations bill, 2004.
It makes appropriations for EPA’s Climate Protection Energy Efficiency Programs (CPP).
House bill reported (H.R. 2681, H.Rept. 108-235) July 21, 2003. Passed House July 25.
Senate bill reported (S. 1584, S.Rept. 108-143) September 4. Incorporated into consolidated
appropriations bill (H.R. 2673) as Division G, November 25.
P.L. 108-311 (H.R. 1308)
Working Families Tax Relief Act of 2004. Section 318 extends a credit for electric
vehicles and Section 319 extends a deduction for clean fuel vehicles. The Joint Tax
Committee scored §318 at $5 million, and §319 at $72 million, over 10 years. House and
Senate approved the conference report (H.Rept. 108-696) September 23, 2004. Signed into
law October 4, 2004.
P.L. 108-357 (H.R. 4520)
American Jobs Creation Act. Section 701 creates a $2 billion tax exempt bond program
for green building demonstrations at brownfields. Section 910 reduces the tax deduction for
Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs). Introduced in House June 4, 2004. Reported (H.Rept. 108-
548, Part 1) June 16. Passed House June 17. In Senate, S. 1637 reported (S.Rept. 108-192)
November 3, 2003. S.Amdt. 3562 incorporated S. 1637 into H.R. 4520 and passed Senate
July 15, 2004. Conference report (H.Rept. 108-755) approved in House October 7 and in
Senate October 11. President signed October 22, 2004.
P.L. 108-xxx (number not yet assigned) (H.R. 4200)
National Defense Authorization Act, 2005. Section 1090 reestablishes the Energy
Saving Performance Contracts program for federal agencies through September 30, 2006.
Section 2403 empowers the Secretary of Defense to conduct $50 million on energy
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conservation projects. Introduced in House April 22, 2004. Reported (H.Rept. 108-491)
May 14. Passed House May 20. In Senate, S. 2400 reported (S.Rept. 108-260) May 11.
Senate incorporated S. 2400 into H.R. 4200 and passed it June 23. Conference report
(H.Rept. 108-767) approved in House and Senate October 9. Presented to President October
21, 2004. President signed October 28, 2004.
H.R. 6, House Version (Tauzin)/H.R. 6, Senate Version (Domenici)
Omnibus energy legislation. Energy efficiency and conservation provisions appear in
Division A, Title I, Title VI (cogeneration), Titles V and VII (alternative fuels), and Title
VIII (cars); Division B, Title I (R&D); and Division D, Title I (tax incentives). Introduced
April 7, 2003; referred to Committee on Energy and Commerce and several other
committees. Passed House, amended, April 10. Senate version incorporates text of omnibus
energy bill (H.R. 4) that the Senate adopted in the 107th Congress. Passed Senate July 31,
in lieu of S. 14. Conference reported (H.Rept. 108-375) November 18. House approved
November 18. Senate cloture motion failed (57-40) November 21, 2003.
H.R. 4503 (Barton)
Energy Policy Act of 2004. Omnibus energy policy bill, nearly identical to conference
version of H.R. 6.. Introduced June 3, 2004; referred to Committee on Energy and
Commerce. Passed House (244-178) June 15, 2004.
S. 2095 (Domenici)
Omnibus energy legislation. This bill is a pared-down version of the H.R. 6 conference
report, which lost a Senate cloture vote (57-40) . Energy efficiency appears as Title I. Also,
Title VII A covers alternative fuels, Title VIII covers hydrogen, Title IX covers R&D
authorizations, Title XI on Electricity includes a provision on PURPA and cogeneration, and
Title XIII has tax incentives. Introduced February 12, 2004.
CONGRESSIONAL HEARINGS, REPORTS, AND DOCUMENTS
U.S. Congress. House. Committee on Appropriations. Subcommittee on Interior and
Related Agencies. DOE’s FY2005 Budget Request. Hearing held February 26, 2004.
(An extensive list of hearings on energy efficiency in the 108th Congress appears on a DOE
website at [http://www.eere.energy.gov/office_eere/congressional_test.html].)
FOR ADDITIONAL READING
American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy. Proceedings from the ACEEE 2004
Summer Study on Energy Efficiency in Buildings. Washington, 2004. (10 v.)
——ACEEE’s Green Book: The Environmental Guide to Cars and Trucks: Model Year
2004. 2004. 120 p.
[http://www.greenercars.com/indexplus.html]
Cato Institute. The High Costs of Federal Energy Efficiency Standards for Residential
Appliances. [Policy Analysis No. 504] 2003. 15 p.
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Government Accountability Office (GAO). Research and Development: Lessons Learned
from Research Could Benefit FreedomCAR Initiative. (GAO -02-8101) 2002. 50 p.
National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners (NARUC). AGA and NRDC
Release Energy Efficiency (Conservation Tariff) Joint Statement. August 2004. 4 p.
[http://www.naruc.org/displayindustryarticle.cfm?articlenbr=21073&startrec=1]
National Research Council. Energy Research at DOE: Was It Worth It? [Energy Efficiency
and Fossil Energy Research 1978 to 2000]. 2001. 224 p.
[http://www.nap.edu/books/0309074487/html/]
—— Effectiveness and Impact of Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) Standards.
2001. 184 p.
Rocky Mountain Institute. Winning the Oil Endgame: Innovation for Profits, Jobs, and
Security]. 2004. 306 p.
[https://www.rmi.org/store/p12details4772.php]
U.S. Department of Energy. Interlaboratory Working Group. Scenarios for a Clean Energy
Future. (ORNL/CON-476) November 2000. 350 p.
[http://www.ornl.gov/sci/eere/cef/]
——U.S. Electric Utility Demand-side Management. In Electric Power Annual 2002,
Chapter 9. (DOE/EIA-0348[2002]) December 2003. p. 51-54.
[http://www.eia.doe.gov/cneaf/electricity/epa/chapter9.html]
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. U.S. Climate Action Report 2002. 2002. 260 p.
[http://yosemite.epa.gov/oar/globalwarming.nsf/content/ResourceCenterPublications
USClimateActionReport.html].
——Change for the Better: Energy Star and Other Voluntary Programs 2002 Annual
Report. (430-R-03-009) September 2003. 46 p.
[http://www.energystar.gov/ia/partners/cpdann02.pdf]
U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO). Electricity Markets: Consumers Could
Benefit from Demand Programs, But Challenges Remain (GAO-04-844) August 2004.
68 p. [http://www.gao.gov/new.items/d04844.pdf]
Vine, Edward et al. Public Policy Analysis of Energy Efficiency and Load Management in
Changing Electricity Businesses. Energy Policy, v. 31, 2003. p. 405-430.
CRS Reports
CRS Report RL32543. Energy Saving Performance Contracts: Reauthorization Issues, by
Anthony Andrews.
CRS Report RL30414. Global Climate Change: The Role for Energy Efficiency, by Fred
Sissine.
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CRS Report RS20298. Sport Utility Vehicles, Mini-Vans, and Light Trucks: An Overview
of Fuel Economy and Emissions Standards, by Brent Yacobucci.
Websites
American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE). Extensive listing of websites
on energy efficiency.
[http://www.aceee.org/]
National Association of State Energy Offices.
[http://www.naseo.org/]
U.S. Council for Automotive Research (USCAR). FreedomCAR.
[http://www.uscar.org/freedomcar/index.htm]
U.S. Department of Energy. Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Network.
[http://www.eere.energy.gov/]
U.S. Department of Energy. FY2005 Congressional Budget Request.
[http://www.mbe.doe.gov/budget/05budget/]
U.S. Department of Energy and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Fuel Economy.
[http://www.fueleconomy.gov/]
U.S. Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory. Center for Building Science.
[http://eetd.lbl.gov/]
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. FY2005 Budget Justification (Goal 1, Clean Air and
Global Climate Change, p. I-111 to I-133 and Special Analysis, p. SA-42).
[http://www.epa.gov/ocfo/budget/2005/2005cj.htm]
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Energy Star Programs.
[http://www.energystar.gov/]
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Table 3. DOE Energy Efficiency Budget for FY2004-FY2005
(selected programs, $ millions)
FY2004
FY2005
FY2005
FY2005
Senate -
Percent
Appn.
Request
House
Senate
House
Change
VEHICLE TECH.
178.0
156.7
167.4
168.5
1.1
1%
Hybrid and Electric
45.0
51.8
46.8
46.4
-0.4
-1%
Advanced Combustion
54.4
35.9
47.5
51.9
4.4
9%
Materials Technology
39.7
39.8
38.4
37.8
-0.6
-2%
Fuels Technology
16.5
6.8
13.3
12.0
-1.3
-10%
Technology Introduction
4.9
6.0
5.0
4.5
-0.5
-10%
FUEL CELL TECH.
65.2
77.5
71.0
75.0
4.0
6%
Fuel Processor
14.8
13.9
9.9
10.9
1.0
10%
Stack Component
25.2
30.0
27.5
33.0
5.5
20%
INTERGOVERNMENTAL
308.6
364.1
322.7
310.4
-12.3
-4%
Weatherization Program*
227.2
291.2
238.0
230.0
-8.0
-3%
State Energy Program
44.0
40.8
45.1
43.8
-1.3
-3%
Other State Energy
2.3
2.4
2.4
2.4
0.0
0%
Gateway Deployment
35.2
29.7
37.2
37.2
0.0
0%
Rebuild America
10.0
8.8
9.8
8.8
-1.0
-10%
Clean Cities
11.0
7.0
11.0
10.0
-1.0
-9%
Energy Star
3.7
5.0
4.0
5.0
1.0
25%
Ind. Competitiveness
0.0
0.0
——
——
——
——
Inventions
4.3
2.5
4.0
4.0
0.0
0%
International Market Dev.
0.0
0.0
——
——
——
——
DISTRIB. ENERGY RES.
61.0
53.1
62.5
58.1
-4.4
-7%
BUILDING TECH.
59.9
58.3
64.9
67.3
2.4
4%
Res. & Commercial Bldgs
17.5
23.9
21.9
23.9
2.0
9%
Emerging Technologies
30.0
25.1
31.7
30.6
-1.1
-3%
INDUSTRIAL TECH.
93.1
58.1
84.9
66.9
-18.0
-21%
Ind. of the Future, Specific
47.2
22.4
47.2
32.3
-14.9
-32%
Ind. of the Future, Cross.
39.9
31.9
33.9
30.8
-3.1
-9%
BIOMASS/ BIOREF’Y
7.5
8.7
12.7
7.7
-5.0
-39%
Utilization
7.1
8.3
7.3
——
——
——
Industrial Gasification
0.0
0.0
5.0
——
——
——
FED. ENERGY MGMT
19.7
17.9
17.9
18.9
1.0
6%
PROGRAM MGMT
85.0
81.7
90.2
81.7
-8.5
-9%
National Climate Initiative
0.0
0.0
——
——
——
——
R&D SUBTOTAL
606.9
543.9
611.0
580.5
-30.4
-5%
GRANTS SUBTOTAL
271.1
332.0
283.1
273.8
-9.3
-3%
TOTAL
878.0
875.9
894.0
854.3
-39.7
-4%
Sources: DOE FY2005 Budget Request, v. 7, Feb. 2004; H.Rept. 108-542; S.Rept. 108-341.
*House approved moving the account to the Labor, HHS, and Education. bill and recommends $238.0 million.
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