SMUD Program Highlighted as National Model__________________________________
Washington, D.C. - April 22, 2008*
Rep. Doris Matsui (CA-05) introduced the Energy Conservation Through Trees Act of 2008 to help lower utility bills and improve air quality. By promoting the strategic planting of trees, the amount of energy needed to heat and cool homes will be reduced.
"Today, we are tasked with reducing our dependence on foreign oil, stabilizing our energy grid, and improving air quality. By harnessing the enterprising spirit of Americans and utilizing a diverse range of innovative approaches, we can accomplish this goal," said Rep. Matsui.
Patterned after the successful model established by the Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD), the Energy Conservation Through Trees Act seeks to save Americans dramatic amounts of money on their utility bills and reduce outside temperatures in urban areas. The program conducted by SMUD has been proven to lower energy bills, make local power utilities more cost-effective, and reduce air pollution.
Planting shade trees around homes in a strategic manner is a proven way to lower energy demand in residential areas. According to research conducted by the Department of Energy, three shade trees strategically planted around a house can reduce home air-conditioning bills by about 30 percent in some cities, and a nationwide shade program could reduce air-conditioning use by at least 10 percent. Shade trees also help to:
- Improve public health and air quality by absorbing particulate matter;
- Store carbon dioxide to help slow global warming;
- Reduce the risk of flooding in urban areas by absorbing stormwater runoff;
- Improve private property values and increase residential aesthetics;
- Preserve public infrastructure, such as streets and sidewalks.
The legislation requires the use of science-based tree-siting guidelines to ensure that trees are not planted in locations that will disrupt pre-existing infrastructure, block solar panels and wind turbines, or damage power lines. Consultation during the development of these guidelines must be provided by Technical Advisory Committees (TACs) that are composed of local energy and arboricultural experts.
It also requires utilities that receive assistance to partner with nonprofit tree-planting organizations or other municipal infrastructure groups to run the technical side of the program. These nonprofit groups are meant to serve as tree-planting experts to complement utilities'
financial interest in lowering peak energy demand and reducing consumption. They will provide technical and outreach assistance, work with tree recipients, and ensure that trees are planted in the right place to maximize energy conservation.
"In Sacramento, we are committed to solving the global warming crisis and reducing our impact on our planet. By expanding one of our successful local initiatives to the national level, we can help ensure that we are handing over a cleaner world to future generations," said Rep. Matsui.
"My legislation is a piece of the puzzle that will become the solution to our environmental challenges and securing our energy independence.
We must take action now to make sure that our planet continues to thrive and flourish for years to come. Reducing our environmental impact will have far-reaching effects into the quality of life for the American people, and people around the world," said Rep. Matsui.
Utilizing Strategically Planted Trees to Conserve Energy is endorsed by:
National Arbor Day Foundation, Alliance for Community Trees, Pacific Gas and Electric Company, American Forests, Sacramento Municipal Utility District, Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, International Society of Arborists, American Public Works Association, California Urban Forests Council, Urban Ecology Institute, California ReLeaf, American Society of Landscape Architects, Trees Atlanta, Friends of Trees, Utility Arborists Association, Sacramento Tree Foundation, Trees Forever, American Public Power Association, Pacific Gas and Electric
###
*Reprinted (in part) from Rep. Doris Matsui’s press release.
