California
AB 970 (see Section 8(a)(2)) - In response to severe power shortages during the summer of 2000, the California legislature directed the California Energy Commission to “adopt and implement updated and cost-effective standards to ensure the maximum feasible reductions in wasteful, uneconomic, inefficient or unnecessary consumption of electricity.” As a result of this directive, the commission has proposed revised efficiency standards for nine new appliances, some of which are not currently covered by state or federal regulations.

Connecticut
SB 341 - Minimum efficiency standards for ten energy-guzzling products were introduced in the Connecticut legislature in the 2001-2002 legislative session. Among other things, SB 341 regulated the efficiency of torchiere lighting systems, commercial ice machines, and refrigerated drink machines, all of which have significant energy savings potential. It is estimated that, if implemented, the legislation would save approximately 5% of the state’s energy usage and reduce consumers’ utility bills significantly. The legislation passed through two committees unanimously, before stalling in the Senate Appropriations Committee. Final action on the bill, which has a minimal fiscal impact on the state’s budget, is pending.

Illinois
SB 1751 was introduced in February of 2002 and provides for the testing, certification, and enforcement of energy efficiency standards for a number of energy-intensive products sold in Illinois. The bill also requires the development of rules containing testing standards and certification requirements, and grants the Director of Natural Resources the authority to modify and update these standards as necessary, and to set appropriate standards for products not covered by this legislation should they be deemed cost-efficient. This bill was referred to the Senate Energy Committee where it is awaiting further action.

Maryland
SB 540 - During the 2001-2002 legislative session, efforts were made to advance a set of efficiency standards for a wide range of energy-intensive products such as torchiere lighting fixtures and refrigerated beverage vending machines. The standards were devised with an eye toward easing their administrative implementation. These new efficiency standards, if they had been implemented, could have significantly reduced energy demand, cut pollution and saved Maryland consumers millions of dollars on their utility bills. While these standards failed to advance beyond the committee stage during this session, proponents believe the groundwork has been laid for success in future sessions.

Minnesota
During the 2001 legislative session, the Minnesota legislature enacted wide-ranging new energy programs designed to modernize Minnesota’s energy policy and infrastructure. Among these new programs, the legislature passed a set of sustainable building guidelines that will be required for all new state buildings. These buildings must exceed current commercial energy codes by a minimum of 30%. In addition, the legislation requires a study of the energy usage of existing buildings, and asks for a detailed report on how to improve the efficiency of these buildings to minimize their impact on the environment and achieve the maximum feasible cost savings. To view a copy of this report, click here.  

New York
By cutting energy costs at hundreds of public buildings, the state of New York saves taxpayers about $70 million a year while helping to clean the air by avoiding annual emissions of nearly half a million tons of greenhouse gases. The electricity saved each year is enough to serve about 300,000 people – about the population of Buffalo.  

Rhode Island
HB 7313 - Legislation similar to that introduced in CT, IL and MD was introduced in Rhode Island in 2002. HB 7313 sets minimum efficiency standards for certain new energy-intensive products sold in the state. No action has been taken on the legislation.