Arizona is one of the four most improved states in terms of energy efficiency, according to a study released today by the American Council for an Energy – Efficient Economy.

The state ranked 18th, up 11 spots from 2009, tying Utah for the most movement. Close behind were New Mexico and Alaska, which both leaped eight spots.

The fourth annual ACEEE Scorecard ranked states based on how they are doing at saving energy. Nationally the study found improvement in many areas, particularly the Southwest.

Part of Arizona’s improvement came from implementation of $57 million received from American Recovery and Reinvestment Act aimed at weatherization.

Arizona Corporation Commission rules requiring utilities to reduce energy use by 22 percent by 2020 also made an impact. Arizona is one of 27 states to heave adopted energy efficiency programs.

“It’s even better to know that these energy efficiency efforts are going to save our state’s ratepayers billions of dollars, help clean up our air, create jobs and bolster our energy security,” said Kris Mayes, ACC chairwoman, in a statement. “Make no mistake though. We aren’t going to be satisfied with 18th place. Arizona intends to lead the nation when it comes to energy efficiency.”

The ACC also approved a gas energy efficiency standard in August that looks to save 6 percent of the energy used by 2020, the majority coming from energy efficiency programs.

bizjournals.com