Statewide programs for energy efficiency and upgrades
The California Public Utilities Commission ( CPUC) has selected CCSE as the implementer of a two-year statewide marketing, education and outreach program to promote energy efficiency, demand response and general energy education to residential and small business consumers beginning this summer.
CCSE has considerable experience in areas of marketing, education and outreach for programs related to energy efficiency, renewable energy and clean transportation, according to Siobhan Foley, CCSE director of outreach and education.
“ CCSE’s role will be one of design, oversight and coordination, including the contracting of marketing firms and media experts to execute and deliver statewide messages and promotional campaigns,” Foley said. “This aligns perfectly with CCSE’s mission, and the Commission’s recognition of our unique ability to contribute in this area is a testament to all of CCSE’s efforts to educate Californians about our clean energy opportunities since 1996.”
In a statement issued on Thursday, May 10, the CPUC said their action also provides multiple forms of guidance to the state's investor-owned utilities (IOUs) to help strengthen energy efficiency programs and to move toward deeper energy savings. The IOUs will construct a portfolio of energy efficiency measures using this guidance and present their plans to the CPUC on July 3, 2012.
"A major goal of today's guidance decision is to transition towards comprehensive measures that offer long-lasting savings. For example, shifting from an over-emphasis on distributing compact florescent light bulbs, towards encouraging deep retrofits in existing inefficient buildings," said Commissioner Mark J. Ferron.
CCSE manages a variety of programs including Energy Upgrade California in San Diego, the California Solar Initiative in the San Diego Gas & Electric service territory and the Clean Vehicle Rebate Project throughout California. These programs are supported by the CPUC, the California Energy Commission and the California Air Resources Board and involve coordination with the state’s utilities, industry leaders, various jurisdictions and other stakeholders.
This new energy education program is an extension of decades of state and utility efforts to promote energy conservation and reduced consumption that have been enacted under banners such as Flex Your Power and Engage 360. Under the banner of Energy Upgrade California, the new campaign will involve residents and small businesses in better understanding the context in which they use energy and motivating action to use it wisely.
The full commission decision is online here.
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