Department of
Economic & Community Development
Matthew Kisber, Commissioner

Tennessee’s Energy Policy

Executive Order 54

Responsible energy consumption is not simply a phrase Governor Phil Bredesen uses to earn political points. He understands the impact promoting green living has on our environment and our economy. And he isn’t waiting for other scientists or officials to chart the course for the coming years.

In March 2008, Governor Phil Bredesen signed his 54th Executive Order establishing the Governor’s Task Force on Energy Policy. The Task Force is charged with developing a state energy plan to make Tennessee a leader in energy efficiency and conservation, use of alternative fuels and renewable energy sources and the development of clean-energy technology.

In developing the plan, the Executive Order charges the Task Force with identifying:

Opportunities for state government to lead by example in energy efficiency and conservation, with an emphasis on building construction and management and vehicle fleet management;
Prospective policies, legislation, regulations or incentives to encourage statewide energy efficiency and conservation in the public and private sectors;
Possible public-private partnerships and collaborations to encourage research and development of clean-energy technology and increase economic development potential in the state’s energy sector and
Strategies for expanding the use of alternative fuels and renewable energy sources to support the sustainability of Tennessee’s environment.

The task force includes representatives of four state agencies, including Matt Kisber, commissioner of the Department of Economic and Community Development, and the commissioners of the Departments of Environment and Conservation, Finance and Administration and General Services or their designees.

Read the governor’s executive order

Learn about energy-related grants, loans and tax incentives

Think Clean, Think Green, It’s in the Bag!” Art Contest

Contest Entry Form

Second and seventh graders are invited to participate in the Energy Policy Office’s “Think Clean, Think Green, It’s in the Bag!” contest to design a reusable shopping bag. Deadline for entries is Saturday, March 6. Click here to read the press release. Contact Ramona Nelson at Ramona.nelson@tn.gov or call (800) 342-1340 for more information.