Efficiency First

In a move designed to create tens of thousands of living-wage jobs for American construction workers sidelined by the recession, the U.S. House of Representatives has revived the Home Star Energy Efficiency Loan Program previously struck from the House version of the Home Star Energy Retrofit Act of 2010.

The Rural Energy Savings Program Act, which passed today by a vote of 240 to 172, combines the Rural Star and Home Star lending programs into a single bill that would provide low-interest financing for a wide range of cost-effective energy efficiency improvements.

Following today’s vote, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi issued a statement praising the House action, saying that: “Today, the House acted to create American jobs that can’t be outsourced, invest in the clean energy industry of tomorrow, preserve our environment, and reduce energy bills for our families and farmers. By passing the Rural Energy Savings Program Act, we are supporting local workers and strengthening demand for products made in America – such as insulation and windows – because when we ‘make it in America,’ we create jobs and lead the world economy. ”

Although the legislation has successfully passed the House, Senate passage will be required before the bill can be signed into law.