LOS ANGELES, July 31, 2006 (PRIMEZONE) -- As much of the United States has sweltered in the recent heat wave and utilities nationwide have struggled to meet heavy energy demand, Southern California Gas Co. (The Gas Company) today urged support for a new National Action Plan for Energy Efficiency that could make hot summer weather more bearable, reduce energy bills and provide a wealth of other benefits.
"Energy efficiency can help stretch existing supplies to meet summer air-conditioning demand," said Anne Shen Smith, senior vice president of customer services for The Gas Company. "Also, it helps reduce customer bills and helps preserve the environment."
The Gas Company is one of more than 50 organizations across the United States -- including utilities, regulators and consumer groups -- that have adopted the plan that provides a comprehensive framework to meet the nation's growing demand for energy. The plan was released today at the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners (NARUC) summer meeting in San Francisco.
Among the plan's recommendations are making energy efficiency a high priority resource; treating energy efficiency like coal, natural gas, and other resources in energy plans; promoting long-term, stable program funding to deliver cost-effective efficiency to consumers; and aligning utility incentives and ratemaking processes to promote investments in efficiency.
"We can significantly improve our energy supply picture if we all work together through energy efficiency," Smith said. "Last year alone, our energy-efficiency programs saved more than 15 million natural gas therms -- enough to fuel a small power plant throughout the summer."
For more information on the National Action Plan for Energy Efficiency, visit: www.epa.gov/cleanenergy/eeactionplan.htm.
The Gas Company is the nation's largest natural gas distribution utility, providing safe and reliable energy to 19.8 million consumers through 5.6 million meters. The company's service territory encompasses approximately 20,000 square miles in most of central and Southern California. The Gas Company strives to provide exceptional customer service to enhance the quality of life in the community. The Gas Company is a regulated subsidiary of Sempra Energy (NYSE:SRE). Sempra Energy, based in San Diego, is a Fortune 500 energy services holding company.