KEEA Action Agenda 2009

Action Agenda 2009

Agency Advocacy

Monitor and fully participate in all formal and informal opportunities at the PUC to successfully implement Act 129.
Continue to provide input, technical and policy advice to DEP on program design and implementation. In particular, provide input on the use of Senate Bill #1 funding for energy efficiency ($7 1/2 million this year of which $3 ½ million will be for small business and the balance for residential rebate and loans); and $15 million next year.
Work with DEP to suggest ways to maximize the money from the American Economic Recovery and Reinvestment Act that flows back to the states for “shovel ready” projects.
Circulate all relevant documents from the PUC, DEP and other agencies to KEEA partners for review and input, such as the PUC Final Order on Act 129.
The legislature may move to mitigate rate increases on the larger companies after the rate caps expire. KEEA will seek to provide input into that process at the legislative, agency and highest policy levels of state government if mitigation becomes a hot topic in 2009.
Monitor and participate in PA Climate Change initiatives.

Legislative

Monitor all energy legislative initiatives.
Look for opportunities at both the key agencies and legislative chambers to expand conservation and energy efficiency programs for gas customers. In addition, seek opportunities to increase goals and funding for energy efficiency.
Maintain legislative relationships by continuing to respond to requests to attend legislative forums, present testimony or answer informational requests under the KEEA name.
Proactively schedule periodic key legislative office visits regardless of any relevant pending legislation.

Regional

Monitor and engage where possible in any PJM working group activities that address energy efficiency or find partners who are tracking PJM committee developments.
Monitor and engage in other regional energy efficiency and climate change projects. 

National

Join and actively participate in coalition efforts to advance Recovery Act programs, particularly those that pertain to energy efficiency. KEEA has already signed on to one national agenda called the “National SAVE Energy Coalition”.
Support positions that benefit Pennsylvania in the area of green jobs and pro-energy efficiency/conservation policies and funding as a result of passage of the Economic Recovery Act or any energy legislation. Work with the Pennsylvania Congressional delegation to support KEEA agenda and the national coalitions’ advocacy. 

Education and Outreach on Energy Efficiency and Conservation Policies

Work toward wide distribution and adoption of ACEEE’s Pennsylvania study. We expect to do substantial organizing and education around their findings in February 2009. This is a very high priority for KEEA this year.
Take every opportunity to promote KEEA and its agenda and members in the press, the public, and with policy makers.
Continue to work on common agendas with PA Home Energy. 

Membership Development

Expand the KEEA membership and formalize various committee structures and organizational tasks, with particular focus on expanding the commercial business sector for membership.
Explore formation of a separate formal organization instead of currently structured as an “arm” of Affordable Comfort Inc. Consider 501.c.6 membership structure.
Enforce membership fee requirements. Provide other options, such as KEEA Friends, for groups who are not formal members.
Secure funding to support KEEA Action Agenda. 

General Member Services

Serve as a resource to share opportunities for KEEA members to partner on projects, participate in seminars or training.
Participate in strategically selected events to further both KEEA’s agenda and its members profile in the public and with policy makers, such as the Farm Show in January, Home Shows, and legislative events.
Provide periodic seminars, conference calls and webinars to KEEA members on timely topics.
Promote KEEA members through directories, website and other online links.
Explore options for facilitating KEEA communications.