Reducing energy consumption has economic benefits, as well. First, dollars that are not spent on energy can be directed toward other purposes, which helps stimulate economic activity and job creation.
Businesses increase their profits and productivity, which can create jobs.
Consumers pay less in energy costs, which makes more of their income available to spend in the local economy. Secondly, energy efficiency programs create a demand for related products and services, creating jobs and new business markets. Energy management programs also are an effective means of relieving budget pressures for local governments. The National Science Foundation estimates that cities can often reduce energy costs by 15 percent without affecting the services they provide to citizens. Phoenix, Arizona, began a very successful municipal energy program in the late 1970s.