A recent post on the White House Blog updates the administration’s effort to see federal agencies make at least $2 billion in energy efficiency upgrades over the next two years. Heather Zichal, deputy assistant to the president for energy and climate change, writes that agencies have identified $2.1 billion in projects that will pay for themselves using performance-based contracts. Zichal:

“Of the $2.1 billion in energy upgrade projects identified by agencies, more than $100 million in Energy Savings Performance Contracts (ESPCs) and Utility Energy Savings Contracts (UESCs) have been awarded already, and an additional $1.2 billion in projects are in development – demonstrating strong momentum towards meeting the President’s goal.”

Later, Zichal notes that increased energy efficie... more »

Yesterday, we launched our newest interactive--Smart House, a game that teaches players about energy efficiency and tests personal energy awareness.

During your time in the virtual Smart House, you can make decisions about the energy efficiency of items in your house and find helpful tips that translate into both energy and cost savings.

Oil and natural gas are vital in almost every aspect of your home, whether they're used in the heating or cooling the home or in the products we use every day. And with Smart House's useful advice, you can apply what you learn and turn your home into a Smart House.

So have some fun and pick up helpful energy-saving tips along the way.

For additional games and simulations to test your skills and knowledge of the energy industry, visit the Energy Arcade. Cr... more »

Thirty years ago today, President Jimmy Carter asked Americans to come together to solve the energy crisis. At the time, global oil supplies had been reduced by political unrest in Iran, gasoline prices were up, and millions of Americans sat in gas lines which snaked through many major U.S. cities. In a televised speech on July 15, 1979, President Carter pressed for more conservation and oil development, saying, "This intolerable dependence on foreign oil threatens our economic independence and the very security of our nation. The energy crisis is real. It is worldwide. It is a clear and present danger to our nation."

Much has changed since President Carter challenged America to reframe its energy policy. The United States has become more energy efficient, consuming less energy for each d... more »