The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) has released the 2013 City Energy Efficiency Scorecard, a report that ranks 34 of the most populous U.S. cities on policies to advance energy efficiency.
Seattle was named among the top U.S. cities – ranked #5 overall and #1 for building energy efficiency. Boston is #1 overall, followed by Portland (#2), New York City and San Francisco (tied for #3) and Austin (#6).
The report includes recommendations and strategies for all cities to lower energy use. ACEEE also launched a new interactive infographic accompanying the report that highlights each city’s best practices and scores.
Seattle earned high marks due to its:
- Well-funded electric utility efficiency programs, which are achieving high levels of energy savings.
- Strong efficiency measures in place for drinking water, wastewater and storm water management systems.
- Requirement that all large buildings rate and report energy use.
- Strong energy codes in place for new commercial construction and its efforts to advance stronger energy codes for homes.