Energy Conservation in Two Northeastern Cities: Opportunities, Problems, and Prospects

摘要

Policy assessment of energy conservation strategies has tended to emphasize technological and economic costs, problems, and benefits. However, too narrow a focus may fail to delineate all the environmental and social impacts associated with the technology in question. In recognition of the importance of a balanced evaluation, a study was undertaken to identify local-level perceptions about environmental and social problems and opportunities associated with several energy conservation measures. These measures included building performance standards and retrofit; waste heat utilization; modifications in land use configurations and transportation modes; and electric utility demand management, and rate reform initiatives. The perceptions were identified by interviewing 55 officials, planners, and members of business and citizen groups in Erie, Philadelphia, and Harrisburg (the capital), Pennsylvania. Results of the study indicate that implementation of the energy conservation measures under investigation faces political, economic, and social barriers of varying dimensions. Major among these are the constraints felt to be imposed by a declining economy and the resulting concern with attracting and holding business and industry. (ERA citation 05:038304)