Chinese and US agency tie-up for energy efficiency program

Wants to slash China’s power demand by 800 MW in 2015.

The U.S. Natural Resources Defense Council has signed an agreement with the Beijing Energy Conservation and Environmental Protection Center or BEEC to work together to develop and implement a plan to improve energy efficiency and reduce electric demand in Beijing buildings and factories.

BEEC said China recognizes the critical role energy efficiency plays in its efforts to combat climate change. It hopes that this partnership will demonstrate that energy efficiency is one of the most cost effective ways to curb carbon emissions and pursue a sustainable energy future.

NRDC, a leading international environmental group which has been working in China for nearly 20 years, will provide expertise and experience in U.S. best practices to help improve demand side management for Beijing.

NRDC and BEEC, a government-affiliated organization, will jointly support this effort and promote Beijing’s successful efforts in other Chinese cities and internationally.

The NRDC-BEEC EcoPartnership was one of six signed last week in connection with the U.S.-China Strategic and Economic Dialogue. Buildings account for over 30% of energy use in both countries.