Local energy and policy leaders gathered today in San Francisco for the latest Energy 2030 On the Road campaign stop. The campaign brings together state and local advocates at events hosted across the country in order to garner endorsements for the goal to double U.S. energy productivity by the year 2030.

During the half-day event, speakers representing public and private industry, NGOs, local policy, utilities, academia and more discussed strategies for increasing energy efficiency across sectors. Lawrence Berkeley Research Laboratory, Nest Labs, and Natural Resources Defense Council were just a few of the influential institutions represented.

Alliance President Kateri Callahan said, “To say that California is a leader in energy efficiency policy and programs would be an understatement. Since the early 1970’s, the state has helped residents and businesses save over $65 billion in energy costs. Given the inspiring conversations at today’s On the Road event, I have no doubt these impressive numbers will only continue to grow and California will continue to lead the way on energy efficiency policy, program and design innovation.”

Exciting new technologies and startups coming from Silicon Valley influenced many of the event’s conversations, particularly while panelists considered how to drive energy productivity through consumer decision making and education. Panelists and audience members also discussed the importance of investing in infrastructure modernization, as well as the public’s perception of energy productivity in the region. 

Event sponsor Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) had several representatives speak at the event, including Senior Vice President of Corporate Affairs Helen Burt. She said, “For decades, PG&E has been proud to help Californians become more energy efficient — saving them money and helping the environment at the same time. But the clear and present effects of climate change demand that we do even more. By building upon the collaborative spirit that ASE has fostered, I’m excited to work across sectors to make energy efficiency an even more powerful tool for our economy and our environment.”