WHEREAS, reliable and affordable energy is vital to North Carolina’s economic prosperity and energy efficiency is the most cost-effective way to meet our energy needs while reducing pollution; and
WHEREAS, Executive Order 80 calls for a 40% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and a 40% reduction in energy consumption in state-owned buildings by 2025, and the North Carolina Clean Energy Plan developed under Executive Order 80 established a goal of 70% reduction in power sector carbon dioxide emissions by 2030 and achieving carbon-neutrality by 2050; and
WHEREAS, North Carolina had over 76,000 energy efficiency jobs at the end of 2020, ranking 7th in the nation; energy efficiency continues to be the largest sector of clean energy employment in the Tar Heel state; and North Carolina has more clean energy jobs in rural areas than any other state; and
WHEREAS, improved energy codes for homes and commercial buildings also can significantly reduce utility costs and create new jobs, and the State of North Carolina supports increasing building energy efficiency through adoption of more up to date codes and standards, including ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2019 and the model 2021 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC); and
WHEREAS, energy efficiency provides critical support for traditionally underserved communities including those living in rural areas, low-income individuals and families, renters, agricultural communities, and small businesses; and the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality implements a number of energy efficiency and weatherization programs and has utilized federal CARES Act funding for various energy efficiency projects in low to moderate-income areas; and
WHEREAS, according to American Council for Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE), North Carolina’s existing energy efficiency programs could reduce the state’s growing electricity needs by nearly one-fifth by 2040; and further expansion of North Carolina’s energy efficiency policies and programs could significantly contribute to achievement of the emission reduction goals of EO 80 and the Clean Energy Plan; and
WHEREAS, together we can continue to save money and contribute to sustainability efforts by learning more about energy efficiency and practicing smarter energy use in our daily lives;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim October 6, 2021, as “NORTH CAROLINA ENERGY EFFICIENCY DAY” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.