Pennsylvania lawmakers passed Act 129 in 2008, a measure aimed at curtailing energy demand, creating jobs, and reducing pollution. The Public Utility Commission is now considering whether certain programs required under the act are working and should continue.

The answer to that question is a resounding yes.

In fact, Act 129 has been even more successful at conserving energy and reducing electricity usage than many anticipated. The goal in Phase I was to reduce electricity use statewide by 1 percent by 2011 and 3 percent by 2013.

So far, all but one power company have exceeded the goals. The result has been an overall savings of 2,075 gigawatt-hours, a savings for customers of roughly $278 million each year. click here for full story.