Washington, DC - The Energy Department announced today the results of a major national evaluation of the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) program funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). The evaluation reflects ARRA's historic level of stimulus—$3.2 billion—and demonstrates the impact of state and local energy efficiency programs to spur economic development through energy savings, job creations, and carbon emissions reductions.
The study fielded independent key outcomes for EECBG during ARRA from 2009–2015. In surveying results, the study determined that for every EECBG dollar spent, program participants received $1.76 in bill savings over the lifetime of the measures installed (at a 2.7% discount rate).
Key findings:
- Lifetime energy savings and renewable generation resulting from EECBG investments: 413 million source metric British thermal units. This is equivalent to the average amount of energy used for non-transportation applications in about 2.2 million households over a one year period.
- Lifetime cost-savings: $5.2 billion of total cumulative savings on energy bills.
- Job creation: More than 62,900 direct, indirect, and induced jobs were created or retained. This is equivalent to about one job per $36,000 in EECBG dollars invested.
The evaluation demonstrates EECBG was among one of the most effective instruments in federal energy policy, aimed at deploying efficient and impactful energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies and practices. The program helped leverage federal and local funds, while educating individuals and organizations about energy-saving opportunities.
The multiyear, peer-reviewed study was led by Oak Ridge National Laboratory. It is the most comprehensive, detailed analysis conducted to date for the program.
The EECBG program operated under the Energy Department's Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. The program provided grants and technical assistance to cities, counties, states, Tribal governments, and territories to support a wide variety of energy efficiency and renewable energy activities.