The Case for Early Action: Balancing Energy Efficiency and Emission Reduction
This document explores the advantages and disadvantages of implementing early action on greenhouse gas emissions in Wisconsin. It highlights the potential benefits, such as significant emissions reductions of 8 million tons per year, energy savings of 9 million mWh, job creation, and increased disposable income. Conversely, it also addresses the financial implications of early action, including possible penalties and the argument that acknowledging climate change as a human-caused issue may carry risks. The need for a national emission reduction registry is also emphasized for fair and accurate quantification of efforts.
The Case for Early Action: Balancing Energy Efficiency and Emission Reduction
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Presentation Transcript
The Case For Early Action • Reduce Energy Use • Increase Efficiency • Improve the Bottom Line • Increase Competitiveness • Save Money
The Case Against Early Action • It costs money to save money • You may be penalized later for reducing emissions early • Constitutes an admission that global climate change is a human-caused problem that needs to be addressed
Wisconsin Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Cost Scenario Emission Reductions
Wisconsin Can Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions • 8 million tons per year by 2010 • Energy savings of 9 million mWh • Create 8,500 jobs • Increase gross state product by $41 million • Increase disposable income by $490 million • Reduce Emissions of Other Air Pollutants
The Case Against Early Action • It costs money to save money • You may be penalized later for reducing emissions early • Constitutes an admission that global climate change is a human-caused problem that needs to be addressed
A National Emission Reduction Registry Must: • Include all greenhouse gases • Be equitable to all sources in all states • Accurately quantify, verify, and register emission reductions • Not give credit where credit is not due
