Promoting Smart Energy Solutions

A time for action!
Now is the time for a bold shift to a safer, cleaner energy future built on clean power and energy-saving technology. The Sierra Club believes that we can save our planet while preserving our way of life, that instead of falling into despair, we should look to this challenge as an opportunity.

At present, the world’s climate scientists believe that carbon dioxide (CO2) levels above 450 ppm would result in severe climate impacts.  To keep below that level, greenhouse gas emissions must be reduced substantially to stabilize the global climate.  Most importantly, CO2 from fossil fuels must be reduced 70% to 90% by the middle of this century.

To reach levels at which climate stabilization is more likely, U.S. greenhouse gas emissions must be reduced at least 2% per year – well within reach as the U.S. economy shifts to a clean energy path.  Because the precise level for avoiding dangerous climate change cannot be determined in advance, the Sierra Club places primary emphasis on making substantial cuts in CO2 emissions as soon as possible.  There is no time to lose.

Energy Efficiency

The Sierra Club Ohio Chapter worked to pass Ohio's new energy law in 2008, which includes an energy efficiency standard. Energy efficiency means utilizing products or systems that require less energy but deliver the same end results.  Energy efficiency lowers energy bills, eliminates the need for new power plants, increases our energy security and keeps our environment clean. Not to mention, it’s the fastest and cheapest way to meet our energy needs.  

Energy efficiency is Ohio's frontline defense against rising energy prices, global warming and a weakening economy:

• Energy efficiency investment will create jobs for Ohio. The Apollo Alliance estimates that for every $1 million spent on energy efficiency, 21.5 jobs are created. Local jobs will be created in manufacturing, installation and construction sectors.   
• The cost of reducing energy use through energy efficiency investments is our cheapest option.  Energy efficiency investments average only 3 cents per kilowatt hour.  The cheapest power from a new power plant is more than 6 cents per kilowatt hour. 
• Ohio can reduce energy consumption by at least 2% per year with energy efficiency resource standards in place.