RGGI Helps New York Homeowners Conserve Energy, Reduce Pollution & Save Money

New York’s investments in clean energy are helping homeowners save money on their utility bills while reducing the state’s share of the pollution that is changing our climate. The Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI), created to reduce global warming pollution from power plants in the Northeast, has become the linchpin of New York’s clean energy strategy, helping consumers use energy more efficiently and accelerating the deployment of renewable energy technologies. Through September 30, 2011, New York has raised $345 million from auctioning RGGI allowances, or carbon dioxide credits. More than $32 million in RGGI dollars is currently helping homeowners reduce their electric bills and invest in weatherization and energy conservation measures, such as sealing air leaks, installing insulation, energy efficient windows, and doors, and mounting solar panels. RGGI investments are also encouraging New Yorkers to install more efficient heating and water heaters. And there’s more money in the pipeline. As a result of these investments, New Yorkers will save $46 million on their energy bills while adding value to homes across the Empire State, based on information provided by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA). This report is the second in a series about how RGGI is benefiting New Yorkers and the