WASHINGTON – As part of the Obama Administration’s efforts to work with state and local governments to deploy smart policies that drive investment and create jobs, the Energy Department today recognized the city of Los Angeles, Calif., for its leadership in the Department’s Better Buildings Challenge – helping the city save on energy costs and cut greenhouse gas emissions. Through the Better Buildings Challenge, Los Angeles has pledged to reduce the energy intensity for 30 million square feet of city-owned and private buildings by 20 percent by 2020. These steps support President Obama’s call to partner with states, cities and tribes to move to energy efficiency and cleaner power, as outlined in the State of the Union address yesterday.
Deputy Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency Kathleen Hogan joined with Los Angeles Sustainability Chief Matt Petersen today to tour the Los Angeles Central Library, which has reduced its energy costs by 20 percent through the Better Buildings Challenge.
“Energy efficiency is one of the most cost-effective options to save businesses, governments and homeowners money while creating jobs and protecting communities nationwide,” said Deputy Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency Kathleen Hogan. “Through the Better Buildings Challenge, cities like Los Angeles are committing to real change – breaking through barriers and achieving tremendous energy savings.”