Wednesday, October 21, 2009 at 2:49:42 PM - by Nate Lew

Solar energy is widely hailed as a way for people to support clean energy and save money over time, but consumers are also increasingly benefiting from energy efficiency in general.

With that in mind, a new report from the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy ranks all 50 states on their progress towards becoming more energy efficient based on policies they have enacted, as well as other factors.

The report named California, Massachusetts and Connecticut to be the top three energy efficient states, with Oregon and New York rounding out the top five. Various criteria were weighed in the rankings, from building codes to state government initiatives to transportation policies.

While energy efficiency is a cost-effective way to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and help the environment, consumers are also finding solar to be an increasingly attractive investment. This is especially true in light of falling prices that have seen prices for photovoltaic panels fall as much as 30 percent in the past year, as well as various state and federal tax incentives.

Solar energy technology has also become increasingly efficient in its own right, with panels now generating more electricity than ever and with innovative new products under development that show even greater potential.