Today marked the beginning of Alliance to Save Energy’s (Alliance) Energy Efficiency Global Forum (EE Global), the world’s premiere, invitation-only forum dedicated to energy efficiency. While the event is only half way over, the energy efficiency conversations during today’s panels, dialogues and networking events have already set the tone for shaping the future of efficiency policies and practices.

Nearly 500 energy leaders gathered in Washington, D.C. for discussion-based sessions covering issues across sectors. The Opening Plenary discussion focused on the utility of the future, during which Alliance President Kateri Callahan announced a new carbon calculator commissioned by the Energy Efficient Codes Coalition. The tool will make it easy for state air quality agencies to determine the carbon emissions reductions that will be achieved by the adoption and enforcement of the most recent model energy codes.

While reflecting on the event as a whole, Callahan said, “For the past eight years, EE Global has brought together thought leaders from across sectors and borders to shape the future of energy efficiency. This year’s Forum is no exception — with over 80 speakers representing 23 countries and countless perspectives. The conversations occurring during EE Global will result in significant impacts far beyond the event, and I look forward to the positive impacts that will come from our attendees’ actions and partnership building efforts around the world.”

Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) provided keynote remarks immediately following the Opening Plenary session. “I appreciate the opportunity to engage with an audience so in tune with the most pressing efficiency issues of our time. Seeing all of you today, I’m hopeful that together we can build on the recent signing of the Energy Efficiency Improvement Act of 2015 into law that I co-authored with Senator Rob Portman (R-Ohio) to enact more policies to advance energy efficiency in our country,” said Shaheen.

Twelve Executive Dialogue Sessions provided the opportunity for further discussion between panelists and attendees on topical efficiency issues ranging from government leadership, to the built environment, to investment and financing issues. The day ended with attendees mingling during the welcome reception before another full day tomorrow.