Energy Efficiency
Policymakers can encourage consumers to use energy more efficiently using local, state, or federal programs designed to incentivize or discourage certain patterns of energy use. RFF experts are examining these policies to help lawmakers better understand their effectiveness and close the existing energy efficiency gap.
Sizing Up the Energy-Efficiency Gap
Learn why more people aren't making energy-efficiency improvements.
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Working Paper — Nov 7, 2019
Can we make social information programs more effective? The role of identity and values
This paper examines the role of environmental values in social information programs.
Working Paper — Apr 18, 2019
The Energy Paradox in Seemingly Competitive Industries: The Use of Energy-Efficient Equipment on Heavy-Duty Tractor Trailers
We collected roadside data and modeled use of energy-saving equipment on trailers to explore the claim that, where there is split ownership between tractors and trailers, owners of trailers will underinvest in energy-saving equipment.
Journal Article — Feb 22, 2019
The Energy Paradox in Seemingly Competitive Industries: The Use of Energy-Efficient Equipment on Heavy-Duty Tractor Trailers
Some federal agencies have suggested that, where there is split ownership between tractors and trailers, owners of trailers will underinvest in energy-saving equipment. We collected roadside data over three summers and modeled use of energy-saving equipment on trailers, and found associations consistent with cost-reducing behavior in the use of energy efficiency devices, but no evidence to support the agencies’ claims.
Working Paper — Nov 7, 2019
Can we make social information programs more effective? The role of identity and values
This paper examines the role of environmental values in social information programs.
Working Paper — Apr 18, 2019
The Energy Paradox in Seemingly Competitive Industries: The Use of Energy-Efficient Equipment on Heavy-Duty Tractor Trailers
We collected roadside data and modeled use of energy-saving equipment on trailers to explore the claim that, where there is split ownership between tractors and trailers, owners of trailers will underinvest in energy-saving equipment.
Journal Article — Feb 22, 2019
The Energy Paradox in Seemingly Competitive Industries: The Use of Energy-Efficient Equipment on Heavy-Duty Tractor Trailers
Some federal agencies have suggested that, where there is split ownership between tractors and trailers, owners of trailers will underinvest in energy-saving equipment. We collected roadside data over three summers and modeled use of energy-saving equipment on trailers, and found associations consistent with cost-reducing behavior in the use of energy efficiency devices, but no evidence to support the agencies’ claims.
Workshop/Seminar — Nov 4, 2014
Energy Efficiency in EPA's Clean Power Plan: Using Building Block #4 to Set and Meet Emissions Goals
November 4, 2014: This webinar, co-hosted by Resources for the Future and the Electric Power Research Institute, addressed aspects of the opportunities and challenges for energy efficiency under EPA’s Clean Power Plan.
Workshop/Seminar — Dec 12, 2013
Does Asymmetric Information in Residential Rental Markets Lead to an Energy Efficiency Gap?
Workshop/Seminar — May 9, 2013
Closing the "Energy-Efficiency Gap": An Empirical Analysis of Property Assessed Clean Energy
Resources Radio: Energy Inefficiency, with RFF's Joshua Blonz
Host Daniel Raimi and Joshua Blonz, a postdoctoral fellow at RFF, talk about his recent research on an energy efficiency program in California, the...
Congressional Testimony: Principles for Fossil Fuel Subsidy Reform
An effective energy tax policy that serves the best interests of the American people should correct market failures, promote cost-effectiveness, an...
Testing for Energy Paradoxes in Competitive Industries
For years economists have debated why so many consumers appear to act irrationally when choosing not to buy energy efficient appliances, lights and...