Kit Kennedy, Counsel, Air and Energy Program, New York

Despite the deadlock in our nation’s capital, states are moving forward with a strong clean energy agenda that saves consumers money and protects the environment. Just a few weeks ago, the California Energy Commission adopted a new building energy code, which will save consumers billions of dollars. NRDC played a major role in advocating for this new code.

And just this morning, the US Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit upheld Washington State’s innovative energy-efficiency code for new and renovated homes. The decision affirmed an earlier judgment by the federal district court that the state’s 2009 residential building energy code was not preempted by federal law. NRDC and other efficiency allies intervened in this case to uphold states’ rights to adopt flexible, cost-effective building codes that save consumers money. 

Today’s decision is a victory for Washington homeowners. And it’s a victory for all of us. The building code, which calls for a 15 percent reduction in energy consumption for new homes, will reduce pollution and save homeowners hundreds of dollars a year on energy. Moreover, it’s a flexible code that offers builders a host of options for meeting the state ...

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