Mid-Ohio Valley Climate Corner: Seize the opportunity

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Report

Introduction

The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) released a report in 2022 ranking all states based on their performance in various categories related to sustainable development. This report aims to highlight the performance of West Virginia and Ohio, which tied for 44th place. The report evaluates states’ transportation policies, state government initiatives, building energy efficiency policies, utility and public benefits, and appliance and equipment efficiency standards.

State Rankings

1. Transportation Policies
2. State Government Initiatives
3. Building Energy Efficiency Policies
4. Utility and Public Benefits
5. Appliance and Equipment Efficiency Standards and Clean Lighting

Findings

Both West Virginia and Ohio scored poorly in all categories except for “building energy efficiency policies.” While their performance in this category was not exceptional, credit was given for having building codes that promote energy savings, strict enforcement of those codes, and incentives for energy-efficient construction in new homes and businesses.

However, both states performed particularly poorly in the “Utility and Public Benefits” section. This category examines investment in energy production efficiency, the impact on low-income homes, and health/pollution effects from the utility sector. Both states received a score of zero for “Appliance and Equipment Efficiency Standards and Clean Lighting.” Historically, states have played a crucial role in establishing standards for appliances and equipment, forcing manufacturers to produce more efficient products. This score also highlights the need for improvement in lighting requirements, such as streetlights, in Ohio and West Virginia.

Seizing the Opportunity

Despite the states’ lack of commitment to investing in energy efficiency and improving quality of life, individuals have the opportunity to make a difference. Websites like IRS.gov and Energystar.gov provide valuable information on how individuals can receive federal income tax credits for making energy-efficient improvements to their homes. These tax credits will be available until 2032, with an annual limit of $3,200. By taking advantage of these incentives, individuals can save on their taxes while making their homes more comfortable and reducing energy usage.

Various household items and improvements are eligible for tax credits, including electrical panels to accommodate the switch from gas furnaces to electric heat pumps or the installation of electric vehicle charging stations. Most improvements must meet Energy Star or efficiency rating criteria to be eligible for tax incentives. Renters can also benefit from these incentives.

Additional Assistance

Both West Virginia and Ohio offer home weatherization assistance programs for low-income families. West Virginia’s website also mentions an upcoming program to support energy-efficient appliances. To start the process, individuals can consider a home energy assessment or audit conducted by trained professionals. Some utility companies, like Appalachian Power, offer this service for free and may provide additional cost savings for energy efficiency improvements. The cost of the audit can also be eligible for a tax credit.

Benefits of Energy Efficiency Improvements

Making energy efficiency improvements to homes can lead to lower energy bills, increased comfort, improved health, higher property values, and a more environmentally friendly living space. There is no better time than now to seize this opportunity and contribute to sustainable development.

About the Author

Vic Elam is a member of Mid-Ohio Valley Climate Action, an avid outdoorsman, and a contributor to organizations that share his concern for the environment and future generations.

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SDGs, Targets, and Indicators Analysis

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

• SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
• SDG 13: Climate Action

The article discusses energy efficiency policies, building codes, and incentives for energy savings, which are connected to SDG 7. It also mentions the need for efficient lighting requirements for streetlights, which relates to SDG 11. Additionally, the article emphasizes the importance of energy efficiency improvements to reduce energy usage and make homes more environmentally friendly, aligning with SDG 13.

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

• SDG 7.3: By 2030, double the global rate of improvement in energy efficiency
• SDG 11.6: By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management
• SDG 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning

The article highlights the need for improvements in energy efficiency policies and building codes, which align with SDG 7.3. It also emphasizes the importance of reducing energy usage and promoting environmentally friendly homes, which relate to SDG 11.6. Additionally, the article encourages individuals to take action to improve energy efficiency, which supports SDG 13.2.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

• Energy efficiency scorecard ranking of states
• Investment in energy production efficiency
• Adoption of efficient lighting requirements
• Number of households making energy efficiency improvements
• Number of low-income families receiving home weatherization assistance
• Number of energy audits conducted

The article mentions the energy efficiency scorecard ranking of states, which can be used as an indicator to measure progress towards SDG 7.3. It also discusses investment in energy production efficiency and the adoption of efficient lighting requirements, which can serve as indicators for SDG 11.6. Additionally, the article suggests actions that individuals can take to improve energy efficiency in their homes, such as conducting energy audits and making energy efficiency improvements, which can be indicators for SDG 13.2.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators Table

Source: newsandsentinel.com