Energy efficiency is typically the least-cost clean energy resource. Energy waste can result in increased costs and pollution from unnecessary generation. As electricity use increases, wise energy use can help keep costs reasonable and make homes more comfortable, healthy, and resilient.

In addition to providing good local jobs, energy efficiency programs benefit our communities by keeping energy dollars local. Efficiency and demand response can also reduce energy use at peak hours, helping avoid costs related to system expansion to meet ever- higher loads.

Ratepayers have a right to equitable access to energy efficiency programs that are cost-effective, accountable, and produce measurable results.

Ratepayers have a right to energy efficiency information.

      • This includes the efficiency of consumer products, information about historical energy bills at a property before signing a lease, a customer’s own energy use patterns, and other information that helps customers make efficient choices.
      • Information dissemination should include robust efforts to ensure underserved populations and communities have equal access to information.

Ratepayers have a right to equitable access to efficiency programs that work for them.

      • All Iowans should have access to energy efficiency programs regardless of home ownership status, housing type, income, utility provider, geographic location (urban or rural), customer size/class, race, ethnicity, country of origin, age, or gender.
      • Energy-burdened ratepayers should be supported in reducing energy costs through efficiency programs, policies, and financial mechanisms that work for them, whether they own their home or rent.
      • Energy efficiency policy and programs should recognize and work to resolve the differing interests of renters and landlords so that renters have access to the comfort and economic improvements of the programs.
      • Large and small businesses, and individuals in every part of Iowa, should have equal access to efficiency programs, technical assistance, and the benefits of cost savings.
      • Local governments, schools, places of worship, other nonprofits and tax-exempt entities that are not eligible for tax incentives should have access to other energy efficiency incentives and programs.

Ratepayers have a right to receive quality, comprehensive technical assistance provided by qualified local professionals and organizations funded through the rate-payer funded energy efficiency programs.

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Learn More: Download Iowa Ratepayer Bill of Rights

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