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It’s difficult to continue hearing people argue with me that they don’t have any money to invest in energy efficiency even as they watch their 401k’s and stock portfolios, GM stock and financial ETF’s bite the dust. It remains simple: energy efficiency investments are the most lucrative, cash flow related investment you can make in the market today. They are a practically assured investment, returning cents on the dollar, provided we continue to use energy…which we will!
It’s no surprise to me that the biggest companies are investing significant resources into energy efficiency products. These are the same companies, who as LP’s (limited partners) of large venture firms are trying to back out of their funding agreements. Wal-Mart was one of a few companies which forged the path for energy efficiency. This June 2007 post shows how ahead of the curve they really were.
Now take a look at McDonalds. Environmental Leader reports McDonalds is rolling out energy efficiency measures in its stores worldwide this year, with energy savings estimated at 14%, or $1.5 billion. No small fry. And this initiative in addition to other environmental action on the fast-food giant’s plate, including fewer landfill visits, biodiesel trucks (pilot phase) and others.
The takeaway is simple. Use less energy, save more money, use that money elsewhere, watch your personal or business balance sheet improve. Oil is back up to $50 a barrel, and it will continue to rise along with energy prices in general. President elect Obama is pushing for energy efficiency measures together with large and small businesses alike, so why isn’t everyone?
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Carbon Crusaders 
Excellent point — and true for both business and individuals.
Business can dramatically reduce energy use by increasing their demand forecast accuracy (and thus reducing building excess supply and moving it around) and people can do a great deal around there house.
Individuals can invest $50 or $100 in lightbulbs, insulation, tuneups (car,furnace, a/c) etc and it will pay TAX free dividends. If you have a $100 per month light bill and reduce it $10 per month, that goes straight into your pocket. There are many such projects around most households.
People need to realize that their behavior has direct impact upon their pocketbook and their carbon footprint.
Each project will directly reduce costs and carbon footprint.
Comment by Karl Waldman January 7, 2009 @ 3:54 am