By reducing power plant pollution, energy efficiency yields health benefits, according to research by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy.
The ACEEE report, “Saving Energy, Saving Lives: The Health Impacts of Avoiding Power Plant Pollution with Energy Efficiency,” estimates the health and environmental benefits that would come from a nationwide 15% reduction in annual electric consumption. Power plant pollution contributes to heart attacks, respiratory conditions, asthma attacks, and premature death, the study says.
Nationwide, a 15% cut in electric consumption would result in more than six lives saved each day, up to $20 billion in avoided health harms, and nearly 30,000 fewer asthma episodes. The complexity of the electric grid, the location of power plants, wind patterns, and other factors influence where energy efficiency’s greatest health benefits would be realized.
A 15% reduction in electric demand is readily achievable, the report says.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Aug 17, 2018
Zoning changes can be crucial to filling large, empty retail spaces
Alternative uses often require action by local officials.
Codes and Standards | Aug 16, 2018
Nearly a quarter of opioid overdose deaths attributable to construction workers
Massachusetts public health study finds pressure to work in pain contributes to problem.
Codes and Standards | Aug 15, 2018
ICC creates new committee on building safety and security
Will include experts from many different disciplines.
Codes and Standards | Aug 14, 2018
Philadelphia adopts 2018 IECC energy code, while state opts for 2015 code
City is one of the first jurisdictions to adopt newest code.
Codes and Standards | Aug 9, 2018
Denver’s goal of 100% renewable energy by 2030 includes net zero energy buildings
Community solar programs for low income residents part of plan.
Codes and Standards | Aug 8, 2018
Too much parking in U.S. cities proving costly
As car ownership rates drop, excess parking seems more wasteful.
Codes and Standards | Aug 7, 2018
International Fire Safety Standards (IFSS) Coalition created
Professional associations and building standards organizations join forces.
Codes and Standards | Jul 31, 2018
Workers allegedly held in captivity by construction subcontractor in San Jose pay theft case
Contractor pays $250,000 in back wages in Dept. of Labor enforcement action.
Codes and Standards | Jul 17, 2018
Heat island effect can turn deadly in extreme conditions
Of all the impacts of global climate change, it’s extreme heat that kills more Americans each year than any other weather-related event.
Codes and Standards | Jul 17, 2018
NIMBYism, generational divide threaten plan for net-zero village in St. Paul, Minn.
The ambitious redevelopment proposal for a former Ford automotive plant creates tension.