On Earth Day, Shaheen Discusses the Recent Breakthrough on Her Energy Efficiency Legislation

**On Wednesday, Senator Shaheen’s energy efficiency bill, known as Shaheen-Portman, finally passed the Senate** 

**Shaheen also praises the signing today of the Paris climate accord and calls for cooperation on fulfilling the United States’ obligations** 

**Shaheen made her remarks at Hollis Montessori School, the first elementary school in the nation to attain the rigorous Passive House efficiency certification**

(Washington, DC)—To mark Earth Day, Senator Shaheen visited the Hollis Montessori School, the first elementary school in the United States to attain the rigorous Passive House efficiency certification, recognizing the school’s exemplary commitment to energy efficiency. During her visit, Senator Shaheen toured the facility’s energy efficient features, and discussed the breakthrough on her energy efficiency legislation, known as Shaheen-Portman, which passed the Senate on Wednesday.

“On Earth Day, it’s important to pay tribute to those around us who are leading by example,” said Shaheen. “Hollis Montessori shows why smart investments in energy efficiency are good for both the environment and the pocketbook through decreased emissions and reduced energy costs. I’ve been leading the fight in the Senate to pass broad energy efficiency legislation and I’m happy to report that persistence has paid-off. My energy efficiency legislation that passed the Senate this week represents another opportunity to help our nation improve energy productivity, reduce carbon pollution, create domestic jobs, save families and businesses money and grow our economy.”

Following the event, Senator Shaheen also commented on today’s signing of the international agreement reached in Paris last year to reduce global warming. Senator Shaheen participated in the climate discussions in Paris as part of a congressional delegation and has been a strong supporter of a broad international agreement to address climate change.

“The Paris climate agreement is an unprecedented achievement and affirms New Hampshire's leadership in reducing carbon emissions,” said Shaheen. “Now it’s incumbent on Congress, the administration and states to work together to meet our obligations. We owe it to our children and grandchildren to act today so we can avoid the worst impacts of climate change, while building strong communities resilient to the changes already underway.”