Cutting-Edge Energy Conservation Bill Introduced: Consumers Could Save Billions
Reps. Thompson and Nunes introduce the “Energy Conservation through ‘Smart Meters’ Act.†Consumers should have real-time information about electricity usage.
Rep. Mike Thompson (D-CA) and Rep. Devin Nunes (R-CA) today announced the introduction of the Energy Conservation through ‘Smart Meters' Act. The legislation would create a special tax incentive for the installation of energy management devices - known as smart meters. A smart meter is an automated electronic electricity metering device that will replace existing home and business electricity meters. These meters allow remote readings on an hourly basis, rather than once per month, giving consumers near real-time access to their energy usage information.
"The first electricity meter was invented in the 1930's at the dawn of electrification in the United States. If you look at your energy meter today, you will see fundamentally the same device using technology that is 70 years old. This outdated technology prevents consumers from receiving the real-time information they need to make decisions about energy use," said Nunes.
"Smart meters empower consumers to make smart decisions about their energy use," said Thompson. "They are also a great example of how conserving our resources can also save money. This bill helps consumers take a step toward reducing their energy bills and their carbon footprint, as well as our nation's dependency on foreign oil."
With smart meters, consumers will be able to reduce consumption when prices are high in order to save money on their electric bills. This technology is also the first step in the development of smart appliances that will be able to recognize high price periods and conserve power automatically.
"Although I believe that Congress should do a lot more to provide increased domestic energy production, cutting-edge energy conservation measures like smart meters should also be part of our national energy strategy," said Nunes.
According to the Government Accountability Office and Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, widespread adoption of smart metering technologies would save American consumers billions of dollars in electricity costs.
CONTACT: Anne Warden, (202) 225-3311 or anne.warden@mail.house.gov