Aggressive investments in energy efficiency in the short run and growing purchases of renewable energy over the long run are a powerful one-two solution for businesses, local governments, and states aspiring to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions now, according ACORE and ACEEE’s report.

The report “Twin Pillars of Sustainable Energy: Synergies Between Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Technology and Policy”, funded by the Rockefeller Brothers Fund and presented by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) and the American Council On Renewable Energy (ACORE), represents the latest research in steps that can be taken now to combat global warming while improving U.S. energy security.

"Efficiency and renewable resources need each other to win the race for clean and secure energy," said ACEEE Acting Executive Director Bill Prindle. "Efficiency keeps demand growth in check so that renewables can begin to cut emissions and oil imports. This report makes crystal clear how efficiency investments and renewable sources can create a more secure energy future for the United States,” said ACORE Co-Chairman Dan Reicher.

According to the press releases of both organizations, the report examines key policy areas where efficiency and renewables work well together, including resource standards for utilities, public benefits funds, climate policy, 'zero energy' buildings, trading in clean energy credits, and utility regulatory policies. It contains case studies of both statewide programs and policies, and individual case studies at the building level. It concludes by recommending further steps for study and policy advocacy to apply renewable-efficiency synergies in policies and programs.