### Question
What is the definition of energy conservation measure?


### Answer
The definition of **energy conservation measure** is as follows in *42 U.S.C. § 6321*:

> a measure which modifies any building, building system, energy consuming device associated with the building, or industrial plant, the construction of which has been completed prior to May 1, 1989, if such measure has been determined by means of an energy audit or by the Secretary, by rule under section 6325(e)(1) of this title, to be likely to maintain or improve the efficiency of energy use and to reduce energy costs (as calculated on the basis of energy costs reasonably projected over time, as determined by the Secretary) in an amount sufficient to enable a person to recover the total cost of purchasing and installing such measure (without regard to any tax benefit or Federal financial assistance applicable thereto) within the period of—


(A) the useful life of the modification involved, as determined by the Secretary, or


(B) 15 years after the purchase and installation of such measure,


  

whichever is less

#### Citation:
  - *42 U.S.C. § 6321*
  - Heading: **CHAPTER 77-ENERGY CONSERVATION > SUBCHAPTER III-IMPROVING ENERGY EFFICIENCY > Part B-State Energy Conservation Plans**

