Working to Lower Energy Bills

As we go to crank up our air conditioners this summer season, I wanted to let you know about a bill I recently introduced that would help us reduce our energy bills.

Last month, I introduced H.R. 2095, the Energy Conservation Through Trees Act, which would help support utility companies' shade tree planting programs across the nation in order to reduce the need for air conditioners, and, in turn, lower consumers' electric bills. It may seem small, but trees planted in targeted locations shield homes, while providing hours of constant, cooling shade during the hot summer months. As a result, consumers can save between 25 and 40 percent each month on their energy bills.

My legislation would expand the successful shade tree program model of our own Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD) and Sacramento Tree Foundation to the national level. SMUD's shade tree program has proven to lower energy bills, make local power utilities more cost-effective, and reduce air pollution.

Reducing our nation's dependence on foreign oil, stabilizing our energy grid, and improving air quality require a range of innovative approaches. It may seem like a simple idea - that planting more trees provides more shade in the summer months and therefore keep our homes cooler - but even small changes can have tremendous results.

As we work to tackle climate change, improve public health, and reduce energy output and costs, I believe that my legislation is an innovative step in the right direction.