A Senate Initiative to Spur Energy-Efficiency in Buildings, Manufacturing, and Government (S. 2262)

What is S. 2262?

(Updated July 13, 2017)

Bill dealing with energy efficiency for buildings, manufacturers, and the federal government.  Would alter building codes in a manner where energy-efficiency would be a more prominent factor. Would provide a financing initiative for private sector investment in energy-efficiency. WOuld direct the Department of Energy to work with the private sector in regard to energy efficiency and establishes a Department of Energy program called Supply Star to optimize energy efficiency in supply chains. The bill would also requires the federal government to adopt new energy-saving techniques. 

UPDATE: On Tuesday, 5/13/14, this bill stalled and then died in Senate, following attempts by senators at adding amendments that dealt chiefly with the Keystone XL pipeline and executive efforts to alter climate change policy. 

According to The New York Times, Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV), "refused to let the amendments come up for a vote, leading to a standoff from which neither side backed down." 

The bill fell short of progressing by five votes. Congress has not passed an energy bill of considerable scope for seven years. You can read the Politico piece about it here.

Argument in favor

Speeds transition to a more energy-efficient economy. Harbors bipartisan support. Leads through example.

Argument opposed

Inefficient use of taxpayer dollars. Unnecessary government intervention in the energy sector.

Impact

Would have impacted energy-efficiency in both the private sector and the federal government.

Cost of S. 2262

The CBO estimates that the bill would have resulted in a $12 million decrease in the federal budget over the next decade (2014-24).

Additional Info

Media: 

The Hill: Reid Blocks Amendments to Energy Bill (5/7/14)

National Small Business Assosciation Energy Survey

Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) One-Page Bill Summary 

Of Note: 

-The House passed an overlapping energy bill in March.