Most California Energy Savings Programs Backfire: UCLA Study

Most California Energy Savings Programs Backfire: UCLA Study
Washing machines are sold at a department store in Los Angeles on July 10, 2008. David McNew/Getty Images
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California has invested billions of dollars in programs to reduce energy consumption, however, many have had negligible or opposite results, according to a recent study by the University of California–Los Angeles (UCLA).

The study found that most of California’s programs that subsidize the installation of energy-efficient appliances—like AC, washer and dryers, and light bulbs—have not resulted in much energy savings. Some have even led individuals to increase their energy consumption.