Associated Press Published

W.Va. among most improved in energy efficiency

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An organization that promotes energy efficiency puts West Virginia among the top five most improved states in this year’s annual scorecard.
 
     The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy released its rankings Wednesday.

Executive Director Steve Nadel says many states are doing more and more each year, and they must constantly improve to retain their rankings.
 
     Joining West Virginia among the most improved are Mississippi, Maine, Kansas and Ohio.
 
     The report says that after years of virtually no activity, West Virginia utilities have begun to roll out some small-scale efficiency programs for its customers.
 
     With residential consumers facing dramatic price increases, the report says energy efficiency is starting to gain traction as a way to lower energy bills.
 
     Lawmakers showed interest in 2011, but proposed legislation failed.