ACC Welcomes ESIC Reintroduction


Association Backs Energy Efficiency Legislation

New U.S. energy efficiency legislation has been welcomed by the American Chemistry Council as a boost to the chemicals sector and a driver for breakbulk transport in the industry.
 
The independent industry association commended the reintroduction of the Energy Savings and Industrial Competitiveness Act, or ESIC, and the efforts of Sens. Rob Portman, R-OH, and Jeanne Shaheen, D-NH, who supported the bill.

“We applaud Sens. Portman and Shaheen for continuing to champion this important, bipartisan legislation... The bill has robust and diverse support, and we hope it moves forward without delay,” said Cal Dooley, CEO of ACC.


Industry Growth
 
Once implemented the act is expected to drive growth in chemicals based breakbulk demand related to diverse industries such as solar panel manufacture, fabriaction of wind turbine generators and high-performance building insulation.

“Using the products of chemistry, manufacturers are creating the technologies that empower Americans to save energy,” Dooley said, adding that “chemistry is the science behind sustainability.”

Based in Washington, D.C., the ACC represents a range of companies engaged in the business of chemistry using best-in-class member engagement, political advocacy, communications and scientific research.
 
“The ESIC Act contains provisions to achieve energy savings across the economy … the regulatory provisions will help ensure high-performance green federal buildings … and the manufacturing energy efficiency program will enhance the competitiveness of U.S. companies,” Dooley said.
 
The ESIC Act was first introduced in 2014 and brought a raft of measures to improve energy efficiency in the U.S.
 
“We’re glad the legislation incorporates provisions that would consider the value of energy-efficient features during home financing and appraisal. Energy costs are among the biggest expenses of homeownership, and these provisions will help families reduce their mortgage expenses and utility bills, year after year,” Dooley said.
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